Men experiencing breast enlargement, known as gynaecomastia, should undergo medical evaluation, as experts warn that this condition, while sometimes benign, can indicate serious health issues.
Consultant endocrinologists told PUNCH Healthwise that men with this condition must seek prompt medical attention to address possible underlying causes.
Gynaecomastia may result from various factors, including hormonal imbalances, liver or kidney disease, medications, or even tumors, according to the specialists.
They highlighted that while some cases may be harmless, early diagnosis is key to identifying health risks and exploring treatment options.
Ignoring this condition could lead to complications or prolonged discomfort.
Johns Hopkins Medicine defines gynaecomastia as the overdevelopment or enlargement of breast tissue in males, often resulting in larger, uneven breasts.
This condition frequently occurs during hormonal shifts, particularly during puberty, but can also affect newborns and aging adults.
The National Library of Medicine reports that breast development in males can occur during three key phases of life: shortly after birth, during puberty, and in old age, typically starting around age 60.
Professor Oladapo Ashiru, a renowned reproductive endocrinologist and Chief Medical Director of Medical-Assisted Reproductive Technology, Lagos, emphasized that the development of breast tissue in men can be abnormal and requires medical evaluation.
Ashiru explained that while this condition could sometimes result from hormonal imbalances or consuming oestrogen-rich foods, it’s crucial to determine if a more serious issue is at play.
He stated, “The development of breast tissue may be normal or abnormal. If it occurs due to excess body fat, it is typically normal. However, if it is not related to weight, it can be abnormal and requires immediate attention, as it may indicate an underlying health issue.”
Ashiru also warned that untreated hormonal imbalances could lead to future fertility issues, urging men to consult healthcare professionals if they notice such changes. “Hormonal imbalances can lead to fertility challenges,” he added.
Dr. Oluwakemi Ashubu, a consultant paediatric endocrinologist at University College Hospital, Ibadan, supported this view. She advised men not to overlook breast development, as it could signal a serious medical condition.
“Visit a hospital and let the experts determine whether you should be concerned or not,” Ashubu said.
She explained that breast enlargement in men may sometimes result from reactions to medications, particularly for renal diseases. “If the breast tissue returns to normal after discontinuing the medication, it is typically not a concern. However, if the enlargement persists, it raises alarms and requires clinical evaluation,” she noted.
Ashubu stressed that in cases of puberty or medication-related enlargement, physicians often monitor the condition without immediate concern. However, persistent or unexplained breast development warrants further investigation.
“Neglecting these symptoms could lead to infertility in the long run if there is an underlying hormonal imbalance,” she warned.
Both experts urged individuals to consult a doctor promptly if they experience unexplained changes in their bodies, as early intervention is crucial to prevent long-term complications.
