Breast Health

Breast Development

We are surrounded by media images of "ideal breasts," but the reality is, few breasts are really shaped like those of the social "ideal." In fact, there is an astounding variety of breast shapes, sizes, colors and textures. Yours are probably perfect for you, but if you are concerned, talk to your parent or health care provider.

Remember that breasts develop at different ages and at different rates, and no one has perfectly symmetrical breasts.

Breast Cancer

One out of every nine women in the United States will get breast cancer during her lifetime. Breast cancer is most common in women who are 40 years of age, and most typically women who are over 50. It can occur in younger women, but this is extremely rare, and is virtually unheard of under the age of 20. Still, it is very important that you get in the habit of doing a regular breast exam -- cancer is easier to treat the earlier it is discovered.

Your doctor can give you information on how to do a breast self-examination. However, it is also important for your doctor to do an exam as well at your check-up.

Other things you can do to prevent breast cancer:

• Avoid heavy drinking


• Exercise regularly


• Eat a healthy low-fat diet


• Take vitamin D

If someone in your immediate family has had breast cancer, you may have a higher risk of getting it. Early checks are a good preventative measure. Talk with your doctor about your possible risk factors.

Breast Exam

Are you unsure about what you are looking for in a self examination? Our nurse educator, June Badal, at the Community Health Resource Center in Palo Alto, can teach you how to do one. Through a short video and breast model, June can show you how to do a self examination. This service is available at our Fremont Community Health Resource Center as well.

The Community Health Resource Center is located on Level 2 of the main Palo Alto Clinic, 795 El Camino Real. Hours: Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Please drop by or call 650-614-3200 for further information.

The Fremont Community Health Resource Center is open 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and closed Fridays. It is located off the main lobby of the Fremont Center, 3200 Kearney Street, in central Fremont. For more information, call 510-623-2231.