A new study warns that men with enlarged breast tissue, commonly known as “moobs” or “man boobs,” face a higher risk of dying prematurely before the age of 75. Gynecomastia is the medical term for this condition, which usually results from a hormonal imbalance and is prevalent in between one-third to two-thirds of men, varying with age. This ailment is different from pseudo gynecomastia, which is caused by being overweight or obese.
The development of gynecomastia occurs in three distinct life stages that correspond to hormonal changes: during the neonatal period, puberty, and later years. According to the study, men with gynecomastia have a 37% increased risk of early death due to any cause compared to those without the condition. The risk is particularly high in men with a pre-existing medical condition, with odds 75% higher than in cases of unknown origin. The most severe risks are associated with pre-existing cancers, as well as circulatory, lung, and gut diseases. Interestingly, neurological diseases were linked to a 29% lower risk.
“Males diagnosed with gynecomastia are at higher risk of death, observed mainly in males with a known pre-existing risk factor of gynecomastia,” Dr. Anders Juul from the University of Copenhagen said in a media release. “These findings will hopefully stimulate more awareness among healthcare providers to potentially apply interventions that aid in alleviating underlying risk factors in males with this condition.”
Gynecomastia is not just a cosmetic issue, but a potentially serious health concern that needs medical attention. Men with gynecomastia should not ignore this condition and seek support from their healthcare providers to identify any underlying risks and determine the necessary interventions.
According to recent research, gynecomastia is a disorder that can affect men of all ages, particularly adolescent males, with the known underlying factor of hormonal imbalances or puberty. There are different therapeutic approaches, but the treatment is based on the severity of clinical presentation and the underlying cause. Gynecomastia is caused by the overdevelopment of the glandular breast tissue, which can contribute to a decrease in the testosterone-estrogen ratio. This imbalance can lead to more significant medical issues such as osteoporosis and other metabolic disorders.
Gynecomastia can occur due to a wide range of factors, including hormonal imbalance, medications, illegal drugs, systematic diseases, testosterone supplementation, and malnutrition. The essential body modification factor that distinguishes gynecomastia from pseudo gynecomastia is the glandular tissue overdevelopment, rather than fat deposition. Several environmental factors can influence hormonal balance, such as exposure to harmful chemicals, nutritional imbalances, smoking, and substance abuse.
