Breast self-examination practices in women with a known neoplasm.

The value of breast self-examination (BSE) has been documented in the early detection of breast cancer in the general public, however, the benefits of BSE in the patient with a history of a breast neoplasm have not been explored. This study addresses the practices of BSE and intervening factors influencing BSE routines in women with a known breast malignancy. Thirty-seven patients with a primary diagnosis of breast cancer were survived via a questionnaire to establish a baseline knowledge level and individual practice of BSE before and after diagnosis. It was found that prior to diagnosis there were 23 patients (62%) who either never or only occasionally performed BSE and 14 patients (37.8%) performed BSE at least once a month. This is consistent with other studies that find 25% to 35% of the general population practice BSE on a routine basis. Post diagnosis practices of regular BSE was reported by 27 (73%) patients. The diagnosis of cancer has an impact on the increase of BSE frequency (p less than .0096). The pre and post diagnosis practices of BSE and the preceived responsibility for detecting breast abnormalities was compared. It was found that 3 patients felt that it was their responsibility to recognize breast irregularities but did not practice BSE. Breast exam was felt to be very important by 90% of the patients.