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Former NFL Player Paul Dombroski Shares Breast Cancer Journey and Urges Men to Seek Early Detection.
Former NFL player Paul Dombroski is using his experience with breast cancer to encourage men to recognize symptoms early and seek medical attention, particularly during Male Breast Cancer Awareness Week, observed from October 17 to 23.
Dombroski, 70, spoke to PEOPLE alongside his wife, Caron, through the Pro Football Retired Players Association and Breastcancer.org, about his diagnosis, treatment and recovery.
The former athlete played six seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers between 1980 and 1985. After retiring in 1986, he maintained his health and felt well until 2013, when he discovered a lump beneath his nipple while watching television.
Having known that his mother was a breast cancer survivor, Dombroski immediately suspected the lump could be cancerous. He scheduled a medical appointment after returning from a planned trip to Hawaii.
His doctor considered the lump suspicious and referred him for an ultrasound, mammogram and biopsy. Although he was mentally preparing for the possibility of cancer, receiving his diagnosis remained devastating.
Dombroski was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer. His surgeon delivered the news by telling him that his worst fears had been realized.
Initially shaken, he drew on his lifelong football experience to approach the diagnosis with determination, focusing on the treatment needed to overcome the disease.
Caron, meanwhile, admitted that she privately feared losing her husband. However, the couple resolved to confront the diagnosis together and focus on recovery.
Within a month, Dombroski underwent a mastectomy and had four lymph nodes removed. He subsequently took Tamoxifen for approximately five years, underwent regular monitoring and kept up with routine scans. He was eventually declared cancer-free and says he has remained healthy.
Today, the couple uses their platform to raise awareness about male breast cancer and the importance of early detection.
Dombroski believes many men overlook symptoms or dismiss lumps as fatty tissue associated with ageing. This can delay diagnosis and contribute to poorer outcomes. Caron also acknowledged that fear of receiving a diagnosis can prevent people from seeking medical care.
Dr. Marisa Weiss, founder and chief medical officer of Breastcancer.org, emphasized the importance of sharing diverse cancer experiences, noting that although fewer than one percent of breast cancer cases occur in men, the diagnosis affects individuals and their families profoundly.
For Dombroski, sharing his story is a responsibility and an opportunity to help others. He believes his experience has a purpose and hopes that speaking openly about his journey will encourage someone to seek help early and potentially save a life.
He considers being able to make that difference a privilege.
