By Aaron Hammond 
A claim attributed to health advocate Dr Evelyn Mensah says more than 620 girls became pregnant after allegedly receiving advice that sucking breasts could help prevent breast cancer. The statement raises two important concerns: the spread of misleading health information and the need for better reproductive health education among young people in Ghana.
However, the original source of the 620 figure has not been independently verified. Until an official report or the full interview becomes available, the number should remain a claim rather than a confirmed statistic. Responsible reporting means checking the evidence before sharing a headline that could cause unnecessary fear.
Does Sucking Breasts Prevent Breast Cancer?
No. There is no credible scientific evidence that sucking breasts prevents breast cancer. Ghanaian health experts have publicly rejected this belief, explaining that adult breast sucking does not protect against the disease.
The World Health Organization identifies several factors associated with breast cancer risk, including age, obesity, alcohol consumption and family history. Breastfeeding has been associated with a lower risk of breast cancer, but that is different from the claim that adult breast sucking prevents the disease.
Teenage pregnancy remains an important health and education concern in Ghana. Young people need accurate information about puberty, consent, contraception and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions.
Parents, teachers, health workers and community leaders all have a role to play. Open conversations can help young people question suspicious claims instead of accepting everything they hear from friends or social media. Health advice should come from qualified professionals and trusted sources, not rumours.
The alleged link between the breast cancer myth and the reported pregnancies needs evidence. There is currently no verified information establishing that more than 620 girls became pregnant because of this particular claim.
Ghanaians should also remember that breast cancer awareness requires reliable medical information. Anyone who notices a breast lump, unusual nipple discharge or a persistent change in the breast should seek medical attention.
The key message is simple: breast sucking does not prevent breast cancer. Better health education and responsible sharing of information can help protect young people from misinformation. Before publishing the 620 figure as fact, journalists should confirm the original statement with Dr Evelyn Mensah or the organisation that recorded it.
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Source : Ghana News Page