Practice of breast self-examination and the treatment of primary breast cancer.

Past experience of breast self-examination (BSE), family history of breast cancer, method of detection of the tumour, tumour size, node status, tumour attachment and type of treatment used for primary breast cancer, were surveyed on a sample of 117 female breast cancer patients diagnosed in Tasmania during May 1986-June 1987. Family history of breast cancer was associated with higher levels of BSE practice. Three-monthly or more frequent BSE in the year prior to diagnosis was associated with smaller tumours at presentation and less axillary node involvement. Breast-conserving surgery was utilized in 38% of all cases treated, and 84% of these patients received radiotherapy as part of primary treatment.