gynecomastia is a condition wherein breast tissue develops in males. A condition that will lead affected males to hiding in shame and humiliation.

Up to one-third of males may have to deal with problem gynecomastia at some time: either at the onset of adolescent age or at adulthood which is triggered with men's increased use of prescription drugs (anti-depressants and anti-obesity).

These facts were reported in a new book entitled "Demystifying Gynecomastia: Men With Breasts" by psychotherapist Merle Yost, a gynecomastia sufferer himself since age 11.

"I was a skinny little boy who grew noticeable A-cup breasts," says Yost. "They called me 'tits' in junior high. Girls offered bras; boys twisted and taunted." He suffered through school, hiding his body as best he could.

At age 34, Yost underwent breast reduction surgery that lead to the birth of a dedicated website for free information and discussion about gynecomastia.

Gynecomastia can be a normal part of adolescence, with a mild form affecting up to 70 percent of boys. Their livers can't keep up with the testosterone raging through their bodies, Yost explains, and what the liver can't process converts to estrogen, causing painful nipples, puffy breasts or both.

This usually disappears once the liver adjusts. But for some, breast growth is obvious and permanent, causing emotional harm and life-long body self-consciousness.

Read more at PR Newswire and at Gynecomastia.Org.