Breast self-examination: historical perspective and current progress.

During its 30 years as an examination technique, breast self-examination (BSE) has developed from an idea proposed by a chapter of the American Cancer Society to a standard recommendation of many health care professionals. While screening for breast carcinoma has been documented as a valuable undertaking, a majority of the studies are concerned with physician examination and the use of xeromammography. BSE as an individual factor has not been adequately studied. Since several studies propose that BSE is indeed effective, while others refute that contention, the results of well-controlled prospective studies are needed. The current literature is at least supportive of BSE, which should be encouraged while controlled trials are analyzed.