Epidemiology

Gynecomastia prevalence varies from approximately 25% to 65% among adolescents and adults, depending on the age of subjects studied.[3][4][5]​​[6]​​ It occurs in 60% to 90% of newborns, and usually resolves within a few weeks.[7]

Most pubertal boys develop gynecomastia, with average age of onset at 11 to 12 years. By 14 years, 60% of boys have gynecomastia.[8] This resolves in most cases within a few months. Persistent pubertal gynecomastia may be present in 3% to 10% of adolescents in their late teens.[3][9]​ 

Gynecomastia is present in 33% to 41% of men ages 25 to 45 years, and in 55% to 60% of men over the age of 50 years.[4][10][11]​​​​​​​ Most of these men are asymptomatic and are unaware that they have breast tissue. Autopsy studies report gynecomastia in 45% to 50% of men.[12]

Gynecomastia correlates with increased body mass index and/or obesity in some, but not all, studies.[11][13][14][15][16]

Use of this content is subject to our disclaimer