AURORA, Colo. -- Many of us may think only of women when it comes to breast cancer. But, the American Cancer Society predicts that close to 2,000 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer each year. And, of those men more than 400 will die from the disease.

Having a female relative with breast cancer can put men at a higher risk of developing the disease. But, most men will tell you they had no idea they could even get this type of cancer.

"I recently heard about men dying from breast cancer and I wondered what men know about it or if they are even aware," said Dr. Eileen Thomas, an assistant professor at the University of Colorado Denver College of Nursing.

Thomas has created the first-of-its-kind study to learn more about what men understand when it comes to breast cancer.

She says many men have told her they know nothing about breast cancer when it comes to their health.

"I ask the men how do they find breast cancer in men? And, one man said something which was kind of disturbing for me. He said 'On the autopsy table,'" said Thomas.

So far, she's interviewed dozens of men in the Denver area. "My long term goal is to make sure the community in general is aware, but also to increase awareness among health care providers because some of the men I've talked to say that their health care provider has never said anything about it," said Thomas.

During the brief question and answer session, she covers a variety of topics and often gets very personal answers.

"I ask the men if they would question their masculinity if a doctor told them they have breast cancer. Some have very honestly said 'Yes, it would. I wouldn't feel like a man due to the stigma and public perception about breast cancer,'" said Thomas.

Tony Panasuk wanted to be part of the study because of his family's medical history. "I wanted to help out in any way. My mother had breast cancer for many years. I wanted to make a contribution," said Panasuk. He feels that men are not aware of their risks because the topic is not highly publicized.

"The race for the cure is all focused for women, there's not mention of men being able to come down with breast cancer. I had a physical performed last year and there was no mention of my breast cancer risks," said Panasuk after his interview session.

Panasuk said he feels more aware since participating in this study.

"I learned it's a condition that wasn't known for men until recently and that there's no shame in being treated for breast cancer if you're a male. I believe once things get publicized at a higher level for males that there won't be as many problems," said Panasuk.

This is information Panasuk plans to share with other men in his family, especially his brother.

If you are interested in participating in this UC Denver College of Nursing study, please contact Dr. Thomas at 303-724-8540.

For more information about Male Breast Cancer visit UCD School of Nursing.