Breast self-examination: a new training method.

Breast self-examination is an important, well-established method of cancer detection. Some authors disagree as to its value and regard physical examination by a physician as superior. Many women, however, do not have an annual physical examination, and the majority (80%) discover their own breast cancer. Proponents find that monthly breast self-examination leads to earlier diagnosis and treatment, and to improved prognosis. Only one third of women are performing monthly breast self-examination, and most do so with inadequate technique and poor comprehension. They are unable to distinguish normal from abnormal findings, and corrective measures are necessary. Health professionals, the best source of patient instruction, should periodically recheck the patient's performance. The technique taught should be uniform and uncomplicated. A simple way to demonstrate common benign and malignant lesions is presented to improve the patient's understanding, skill, and confidence.