Abstract

Research with 2089 adolescent girls shows that the breast has a negative impact on girls’ sport participation, with 73% reported ≥ one breast-specific concern in sports. Furthermore, 26% of girls reported negative feelings about their breasts and 87% want to learn more about their breasts. This study aims to evaluate the short- and long-term impact of a multiple topic 50-minute breast education intervention on girls’ breast knowledge, attitudes towards breasts and engagement with positive breast habits. The impact of the intervention has been evaluated in a mixed-methods, controlled, longitudinal cohort study over a period of six-months, utilising a valid and reliable breast survey in conjunction with six focus groups. Two-control schools (receiving no intervention) and two-intervention schools (receiving the intervention) participated in the study.
Survey results showed that the intervention was effective; girls in the intervention schools (n= 375) significantly improved their breast knowledge, their attitudes towards their breasts and the engagement with positive breast habits post-intervention, compared to the control schools (n= 412). These improvements were sustained over time. Focus groups findings supported these results; participants described the session as “informative”, “insightful” and it made them “feel less embarrassed and more confident” about their breasts. They also reported wanting to do more exercise. These findings demonstrate the positive impact of the intervention.