The term “gynecomastia” comes from the Greek translation of “womanly breasts”. This unfortunate condition found on males bodies looks just like that. Protruding bosoms on a male body can be an embarrassing condition.
Although men don’t often talk about this problem, it is estimated that as many as forty to sixty percent of them have had this condition at some time during their lifetime. What causes gynecomastia? There is not one definitive answer because it varies from male to male. Here are six of the most common causes of the malady:
1) Obesity: Breasts are made up of adipose tissue, which is also referred to simply as “fat”, skin and glandular tissue. When a person becomes overweight, excess adipose deposits will appear on various sites on a body. Unfortunately, for many men, one of the locations where bulges will show up is the chest area. These deposits can droop and protrude, causing the embarrassing appearance of “man boobs”.
2) Puberty: As a male goes through his pubescence, his body is experiencing a rapid change. Fluctuating hormones is just one of the occurrences that is taking place. This can create an imbalance in the body which results in adolescent gynecomastia. As he grows into maturity, this form of gynecomastia will usually subside and the musculature of a masculine male chest will take the place of the temporary bosoms.
3) Medical conditions or diseases: Gynecomastia can be the result of an underlying medical condition or disease. If a man is suffering from this malady in terms of his appearance, it would be wise to have a thorough physical check up in order to rule out the presence of a dangerous disease. Liver disease, hemophilia and leukemia are just a few of the possible underlying diseases which can result in womanly breasts on a man.
4) Prescription drugs: There are several prescription medications which have the unfortunate side effect of spouting “man boobs” on an unsuspecting male. It would be wise to check into the side effects of any medication that one is taking in order to eliminate this as a possible cause for the condition. Speaking with a pharmacist or the prescribing physician would be a wise idea, as well.
5) Illegal drugs: Marijuana use and the use of steroids in body building have been linked to gynecomastia. Stopping the pot smoking or the “‘roids” may stop the female breasts, as well.
6) Tumors: On occasion, there may be tumors growing in the chest area which appear to be breast-like. Tumors can be malignant or benign, but should always be brought to the attention of a medical doctor for evaluation.