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.
[At first I just assumed the higher risk was from obesity, but the study distinguishes that condition separately. Enlarged breasts seem much more likely to be a correlative symptom of some other causative mechanism, but men should be aware of these risks. — Ed]
Join the conversation as a VIP Member