Hi @"Soldier Crab" @socoda @Pauline_BCNA @traveltext
The messages of inclusiveness are welcomed and reassuring
For those wanting to know more about MBC there are some fantastic resources developed recently by @Pauline_BCNA in consultation with MBC advocates. BCNA have a plan that will go a long way to answering your concerns and providing the support we need. Personally I have been very fortunate to be part of the process and included in some ground breaking sessions. Myself and @traveltext are attending the upcoming BCNA Summit as MBC representatives and it will a great opportunity to build relationships and continue to get the message out that breast cancer doesn't discriminate...it's more than 1 in 8.
The biggest challenge is improving education and awareness in the community to ensure Men understand they can be affected, what to look out for, practice good self examination techniques, and if concerned seek medical review asap.
Unfortunately the prevelance of pink only reinforces the myth that it is a female disease and we have been advocating for a splash of blue to be added somewhere that might provide the catalyst that starts a conversation in the community like "what is that splash of blue all about?"
By and large MBC diagnoses and treatments are currently the same for men as they are for women, but recent overseas research has indicated there are some differences for MBC and we are hopeful that future treatments may be adapted to improve outcomes.
If you check out the BCNA website there is a great deal of updated information on MBC under the heading "Understanding breast cancer" link.
Thanks again for your support
Rob
