Cancer Survivor Story - Judge Brian A. Jackson

It’s not unusual for Judge Brian Jackson to get a call from someone in his network asking if he will reach out to a male friend, family member or colleague about their cancer diagnosis. This role as a mentor of sorts is because he is one of a small group of men diagnosed with breast cancer. Less than 1% of breast cancer cases occur in men.

Because breast cancer is so rare in men, it may not be considered as a potential diagnosis for quite some time, leading to many men being diagnosed at later stages when the cancer is more advanced. For Jackson, he first noticed discoloration and an odd shape around the nipple that he attributed to irritation from a seatbelt until it worsened and became painful. He got it checked out with both his primary care provider and a dermatologist, who took a biopsy that ultimately led to a stage 1 diagnosis. After surgery and radiation treatments over several months, Jackson got a clean bill of health.

Jackson recognizes the belief many men hold that they’re “untouchable,” and on top of that, breast cancer is certainly not on their radar even when symptoms are present. He remembers being “shocked and perplexed” when he heard his diagnosis. Now, he likes to remind people that we are all born with breast tissue, which means we are all susceptible to breast cancer.

Though men aren’t urged to get preventive screenings as part of their healthcare routine, being aware of any changes to their breasts – and then acting on it -- is key. It can grow and spread like any other cancer if left untreated. Knowing your risk is important, too. Jackson was 47 at diagnosis, which is on the early side. Though breast cancer can occur in men at any age, it’s most common between ages 60-70. Other conditions that increase risk for men include obesity, undescended testicle, removal of one or more testicles, estrogen treatment for prostate cancer, and having a BRCA1 or BRCA genetic mutation.

At the time, it was recommended that he receive treatment at MD Anderson, but Jackson was confident in the high level of care and skill available right here in Baton Rouge. He says that having supportive family and a network of friends by his side every step of the way made a world of difference for him and goes a long way in achieving better outcomes for patients.

He shares his insight when he has the chance and says that most men are receptive to the education and awareness. When he does connect with another man who has been recently diagnosed, he shares just how incredible the advancements in cancer care have been over the past several years and encourages them to remain hopeful as they go through their own cancer journey.