I have breasts like a woman

My problem started at age 13 when I noticed the increase in my breast size. My friends asked me to be patient that the breasts will soon reduce in size. Unfortunately, they have continued to grow in size. I am now 17 years old and my breasts are as big as a woman’s own. I try to hide the breasts by folding my arms across my chest anytime I am in front of my friends and teachers. Please let me know what to do about this.

Frank (by SMS)

• Breastfeeding: Does breast size really matter?

Your condition, called gynecomastia, affects males who have a hormonal imbalance.  All males produce some “female” hormone. Sometimes there is an imbalance, and when the imbalance occurs, it produces gynecomastia. Probably about two thirds of boys will develop this. It usually comes toward mid-to-late puberty or at about age 13 or 14. One of the more common causes of breast enlargement is fat accumulation behind the breast. One study showed a direct correlation between body mass index and gynecomastia. In this case, losing weight is usually recommended

In addition, Gynecomastia can be a symptom of certain cancers and problems involving the testis, thyroid gland, liver, or kidneys. Parents should be reassured that two thirds of teenagers will develop gynecomastia without any underlying problem. If the child develops it early—at age 5, 6, or 7—there is more of a concern that there is an underlying disease. If your breast enlargement does not subside in another year or two and you are not fat, then you will need to see a specialist doctor (Endocrinologist) for a review.