Breast Ironing: A Harmful Cultural Practice
Author Information
Author(s): Cárdaba-García Rosa M., Velasco-Gonzalez Veronica, Cárdaba-García Inés, Pérez-Pérez Lucía, Durantez-Fernández Carlos, Muñoz-del Caz Alba, Soto-Cámara Raúl, Aparicio-García Marta Evelia, Madrigal Miguel, Pérez Inmaculada, Gray Richard
Primary Institution: University of Valladolid
Hypothesis
How does breast ironing affect the health and rights of adolescent girls?
Conclusion
The study concludes that human rights and the elimination of harmful practices like breast ironing must take precedence over cultural beliefs.
Supporting Evidence
- Breast ironing is a harmful practice that can lead to severe physical and psychological consequences for girls.
- The practice is culturally accepted in some regions, complicating efforts to eradicate it.
- Educational campaigns are necessary to raise awareness about the dangers of breast ironing.
- Human rights must take precedence over cultural practices that harm individuals.
- Breast ironing is linked to a lack of male accountability in preventing violence against girls.
Takeaway
Breast ironing is when heat is applied to girls' breasts to stop them from growing, which can hurt their health and self-esteem. It's done to protect them from unwanted attention but is harmful.
Methodology
A reflective analysis was conducted through a comprehensive search of various databases following narrative review methodology.
Limitations
The study faced limitations due to the scarcity of high-quality literature on breast ironing.
Participant Demographics
The practice primarily affects girls and adolescents, particularly in Cameroon.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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