Navigating Life As A Male Breast Cancer Survivor | Healed In Whole | More Life Magazine [Video]

Travis Douglas is an award-winning hair stylist and recording artist who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. In our discussion, Travis shared insights on embracing support, navigating the physical changes from cancer treatments, and drawing strength from his faith to anchor him through this journey. CONTENT WARNING: Sexual health is discussed during this interview.
—–
BARRIER-BREAKING RESOURCES
Sexual Intimacy During Cancer Treatment: dana-farber.org/health-library/sexual-intimacy-during-cancer-treatment

Integrative Health Approaches For Better Sleep: healingworksfoundation.org/integrative-health-approaches-for-better-sleep
—–
TERMINOLOGY
Axillary Dissection: Surgical procedure to remove some or all of the lymph nodes from the underarm area so the nodes can be examined under a microscope to check whether cancer cells are present.

Genetic Tests: Analyzing DNA to look for an inherited gene mutation in a person that may show an increased risk for developing a specific disease.

Inclusive Care – Inclusive care is the notion that health services should be equally accessible to all regardless of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or marital status (Collective Health).

Lumpectomy – Surgery removing an area of cancerous breast tissue.

Lupron (Leuprolide) – An LHRH (luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone) agent hormonal therapy drug. LHRHs shut down the ovaries and stop them from producing estrogen — so there is less estrogen to fuel the growth of hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer. In men, LHRHs affect the pituitary gland, which regulates testosterone production in the testicles.

Mammogram – An X-ray image of the breast.

Mastectomy – Surgery to remove part or all of the breast. There are different types of mastectomy that differ in the amount of tissue and lymph nodes removed.

Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) – Breast cancer that has spread beyond the breast to other organs in the body (most often the bones, lungs, liver or brain). Metastatic breast cancer is not a specific type of breast cancer, but rather the most advanced stage (stage IV) of breast cancer.

Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) – A hormone therapy drug (taken in pill form) used to treat early and advanced stage breast cancers that are hormone receptor-positive. These breast cancers need estrogen to grow. Tamoxifen stops or slows the growth of these tumors by blocking estrogen from attaching to hormone receptor in the cancer cells.

Ultrasound (Sonogram) – Diagnostic test that uses sound waves to make images of tissues and organs. Tissues of different densities reflect sound waves differently.

Whole Person Care – Whole person care starts with “what matters” most to patients in their cancer care and integrates this care with cancer treatment as well as both integrative and supportive oncology in a person-centered way (Healing Works Foundation).

Definitions provided by Breastcancer.org, Susan G. Komen and American Cancer Society unless otherwise noted.
———
ABOUT BLACK MEN AND BREAST CANCER
Male breast cancer is pretty rare, making up less than 1% of all breast cancer cases and less than 1% of cancers in men overall. However, it’s becoming more common, especially among Black men.

According to American Cancer Society (ACS), breast cancer incidence rates are 52% higher in Black men than in white men. In fact, Black men had much higher incidence rates for all breast cancer subtypes, defined by HR/HER2 status, compared to white men. This increased risk was seen across all age groups of Black men.
———
RESOURCES FOR MALE BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS:
Cancer Dudes
HIS Breast Cancer Awareness
Livestrong
Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance
Male Care
Reel Recovery

———
More Life Magazine is a curated guide to better breast health and wellness for all. It is publication led by The Missing Pink Breast Cancer Alliance. To find resources to better navigate life after a breast cancer diagnosis, visit www.themorelifemag.com/resource-library

Disclaimer: More Life Magazine is not meant to treat, diagnose, or be a substitute for medical advice. Please seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider regarding your health.