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Line 1: − − The disproportionately large size of human breasts, compared to those of most other [[mammal]]s, has given rise to a supposition that they some function in addition to nourishing young, such as providing a social or sexual signal. Line 21:
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Move non-nutritional function to "evolution of the breast"
The word '''breast''' can refer to the upper anterior part of the human chest that, in men and women, includes the [[mammary glands]], or to either of these glands individually.
The word '''breast''' can refer to the upper anterior part of the human chest that, in men and women, includes the [[mammary glands]], or to either of these glands individually.
Histologically and developmentally, mammary glands are modified sweat glands.
Histologically and developmentally, mammary glands are modified sweat glands.
== Evolution of the Breast ==
== Evolution of the Breast ==
The disproportionately large size of human breasts, compared to those of most other [[mammal]]s, has given rise to a supposition that they some function in addition to nourishing young, such as providing a social or sexual signal.
[[Evolution]]ists have suggested that the development of large breasts originally came about by men selecting mates whose breasts were slightly swollen to indicate their fertility; consequently large-breasted women were disproportionately popular as sexual partners, and their genes for large-breastedness were thus favoured for transmission to future generations.{{fact}} Today, many women undergo [[cosmetic surgery]] enhancing their breast size (and their imagined [[sex appeal]]) to unnatural levels.
[[Evolution]]ists have suggested that the development of large breasts originally came about by men selecting mates whose breasts were slightly swollen to indicate their fertility; consequently large-breasted women were disproportionately popular as sexual partners, and their genes for large-breastedness were thus favoured for transmission to future generations.{{fact}} Today, many women undergo [[cosmetic surgery]] enhancing their breast size (and their imagined [[sex appeal]]) to unnatural levels.