Breast Self-Examination Study Results
Author Information
Author(s): J. Philip, W.G. Harris, C. Flaherty, C.A.F. Joslin, J.H. Rustage, D.P. Wijesinghe
Primary Institution: Breast Cancer Screening Unit, Huddersfield
Hypothesis
Does an educational program in Breast Self Examination (BSE) reduce breast cancer mortality among women aged 45-64?
Conclusion
The study found no significant difference in breast cancer incidence rates between women who attended BSE instruction meetings and those who did not.
Supporting Evidence
- 30% of women responded to the first invitation and attended an educational meeting.
- The average incidence rate of breast cancer was 2.27 per thousand women, higher than the expected rate of 1.5 per thousand.
- Women who discovered abnormalities during self-examination presented with smaller lumps compared to those who did not.
- 54 of the 153 new cancers were in women who attended an educational meeting.
Takeaway
The study looked at whether teaching women to check their own breasts for lumps helps find cancer earlier, but it didn't show a big difference in outcomes.
Methodology
Women aged 45-64 in Huddersfield were invited to educational meetings on BSE, and their breast cancer incidence was monitored over three years.
Potential Biases
Self-selection bias may exist as women who attend educational meetings might have different health-seeking behaviors.
Limitations
The study is still ongoing, and results may change as more data is collected over the full seven years.
Participant Demographics
Women aged 45-64 living in the Huddersfield Health District.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
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