Breast Self Examination and Survival from Breast Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): M. Le Geyte, D. Mant, M.P. Vessey, L. Jones, P. Yudkin
Primary Institution: University of Oxford, Department of Public Health and Primary Care
Hypothesis
Does breast self-examination (BSE) lead to improved survival rates in women with breast cancer?
Conclusion
Women who were taught and practiced breast self-examination had a higher six-year survival rate compared to those who were not taught.
Supporting Evidence
- Women taught BSE had a six-year survival rate of 73.1%, compared to 66.1% for those not taught.
- Previous studies indicated that BSE may lead to earlier diagnosis.
- Survival benefit appears limited to patients with early-stage tumors.
Takeaway
Learning how to check your breasts can help you find cancer earlier, which might help you live longer.
Methodology
The study followed 616 women aged 15-59 with breast cancer, comparing survival rates between those taught BSE and those not taught.
Potential Biases
There may be selection bias due to differences in attendance at BSE education sessions.
Limitations
The study could not definitively separate the effects of early diagnosis from treatment effects.
Participant Demographics
Women aged 15-59, newly diagnosed with breast cancer.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.07
Statistical Significance
p=0.07
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