A study conducted by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and colleagues of Boston Children’s Hospital examined the mental and emotional effects of gynecomastia, a condition in which men develop female breasts. Researchers found that persistent gynecomastia negatively affects self-esteem, especially in adolescent boys.
In the study, researchers ran a series of psychological examinations on 47 healthy boys with an average age of 16.5. All of the study participants were being evaluated for gynecomastia and results were compared to boys who did not have breast enlargement.
Specific findings from the study were adjusted for weight and body mass index (BMI), since 64 percent of the gynecomastia participants were overweight or obese, while only 41 percent of the comparison group was overweight or obese. The results revealed that the patients with gynecomastia had lower scores in the following areas:
- Standard quality of life
- General health
- Social functioning
- Mental health
- Self-esteem
The lower scores in the above areas, including lower self-esteem, were directly attributed to breast enlargement.
Risperdal and Gynecomastia
Risperdal, a prescription medication used to treat schizophrenia, autism and bipolar disorders, has been linked to the development of breasts in adolescent males. Many young males who take Risperdal have developed breasts and consequently experienced psychological trauma in line with the results of the above study. Some young males have needed surgery to remove the breasts.
Risperdal’s manufacturer may have failed to disclose information on Risperdal’s serious side effects to consumers while marketing the drug. If you or someone you know has taken Risperdal and later experienced male breast enlargement, consider contacting a Simmons Hanly Conroy lawyer today. Our Risperdal lawyers will work with you to determine if you are eligible to file a lawsuit.
