Teen Breast Health
You’ve had at least one sex talk with your tween and several with your teen. You discuss all types of body issues, from weight management to acne. But do you ever talk about breast health? If not, it’s time to start.
Girls and boys go through a rapid growth spurt during puberty, and the hormonal surge that occurs causes breast tissue to grow in both genders. (Fully two-thirds of all boys develop breasts, which typically go away within a few years, although some—particularly overweight boys who produce more estrogen—may have “man breasts” or what some kids call, “moobs.”) All girls start growing breast buds which can feel like a small stone or hard lump. The buds may feel tender and sensitive, and one side may develop before the other. With all the media attention on breast cancer these days, is it any wonder that your daughters might be terrified that they have it?
It’s up to parents to sit down and explain exactly what’s going on and to tackle specific subjects like breast size, shape and symmetry, nipple hair, fluid and monthly changes; when to buy a bra and what kind, self-consciousness about being “too big” or “too small,” teasing at school, and family history of breast cancer.
In the intense research that’s been done over the past several years, it has come to light that there are preventive steps to take to reduce the risk of breast cancer. Fortunately, the same things that are healthy for breasts are also better for the environment. Here’s what you can do as a family:
Stick to a healthy weight. Your doctor will be able to tell you what a normal weight range is for you and your teen
Eat foods without pesticides, herbicides, hormones, preservatives, or artificial fertilizers
Eat 6 to 9 fruits and vegetables per day. Buy organic if you can afford them, and locally grown whenever possible
Cook, store, reheat and carry your food in glass, metal, ceramic or paper (not plastic)
Drink filtered tap water, not bottled water
Exercise 3 to 4 hours a week. Be active: take the stairs, walk instead of drive.
Don’t smoke and avoid second-hand smoke
Don’t drink even when you reach the legal drinking age of 21, or limit your use of alcohol to fever than 5 drinks a week
Following these guidelines over time can make a real breast healthy difference in your family. And as you lead by your own example, you can empower your tweens and teens to become smart, healthy individuals with strength, confidence, and spirit.
See timely resources on teen breast health.