Breast education for schoolgirls; why, what, when, and how?

Breast J. 2018 May;24(3):377-382. doi: 10.1111/tbj.12945. Epub 2017 Nov 15.

Abstract

Schools are fundamental settings for health education and adolescent females are an important group for promoting positive breast habits. We surveyed 2089 schoolgirls (11-18 years) to provide evidence for, and guidance on, breast education for schoolgirls. 26% reported negative feelings about their breasts and 87% reported ≥ one breast concern. 72% wanted to know more about breast cancer (69% rating this extremely important). >50% wanted to know more about breast sag and breast pain. Preferred delivery format was age eleven (50%), girls only taught sessions (41%) with female teachers (43%). A need for breast education and delivery preferences was identified.

Keywords: adolescence; breast health; education; puberty; schoolgirls.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • England
  • Female
  • Health Education / methods*
  • Humans
  • Mammary Glands, Human / anatomy & histology
  • Mammary Glands, Human / growth & development*
  • Schools