Awareness of Breast Developmental Anomalies: A Study in Jamasi, Ghana

BACKGROUND: Few global studies investigating breast developmental anomalies (BDA) among young females have been conducted. This study aimed to evaluate the degree of BDA awareness among young females in central Ghana. METHODS: In February 2008, clinical breast examination was performed for both breasts of female volunteers at five selected junior high schools (JHS) in Jamasi, Ghana. Anonymous pretested questionnaires were administered to those found to have BDA. RESULTS: Of the 600 female students surveyed, 78 (13%) were found to have BDA. All 78 females completed the questionnaire. The respondents ranged in age from 12 to 21 years (mean 15.3 years). Most of the respondents (83%) had some knowledge of BDA. Although 63% had been aware of their own BDA for 1–3 years before the survey; 78% did not know the cause of their BDA. According to their self-reports, BDA had no influence on the schooling of 78.2% or the family of 70.5% of the respondents. CONCLUSION: Awareness of BDA among the JHS females in Jamasi is high. Appropriate education and treatment should be encouraged for continual management of a high awareness level for BDA.