The earlier breast cancer is detected, the greater a woman's chance for survival and eventual return to good health. Although adolescent girls are not typically at high risk for breast cancer, research has shown that diet and alcohol choices now can affect their risk later in life. Also, regular exercise beginning in adolescence can significantly lower the risk of breast cancer in younger women, according to a study published by the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. This study further recommends that young women begin breast self-examination before the age of 20.

The Poe Center offers a unique breast health outreach program aimed specifically at high school girls. "BSE: Better Start Early" focuses on creating a positive attitude towards breast self-exam among young women and helping them adopt healthy habits that can positively impact their future breast health.

Thanks to funding provided by NC Triangle Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and NC Medical Society Alliance Health Education Foundation, the Poe Center can offer this outreach program free to high school girls in Wake and Orange counties.

To bring our "BSE: Better Start Early" program to your school, call Julie McQueen, the Poe Center's Director of Education, at (919) 231-4006.

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