Is it true that self breast exam is found to be not as sensitive as it was thought to be in detecting breast cancer? If so, is there any evidence available on the matter?
Dear Ms. Alia .. this is very interesting thought since many people encourage ladies to do BSE without looking to the available evidence ..
Breast self-examination (BSE) has been compared with usual care (no screening activity) and has not been shown to reduce breast cancer mortality.
1st RCT study done in Russia " Results of a prospective randomized investigation [Russia (St.Petersburg)/WHO] to evaluate the significance of self-examination for the early detection of breast cancer ". (see the link)
2nd RCT study done in China " Randomized trial of breast self-examination in Shanghai: final results. (see the attached full text)
both studies showed no benefit of doing BSE compared to no screening and led to more breast biopsies and diagnosis of more benign breast lesions.
3rd link from NCI .. very helpful for more info about BSE & CBE
Women above 25 must examine their own breast from time to time, as a routine, to be sure there is no LUMP.NODULE in their breast.If suspected, they must see a Cancer Doctor for proper guidance
For ladies for the age group of 35-60,it is extremely important to SELF-EXAMINE her BREAST for the presence of any LUMP/NODULE.If suspected, she must see the cancer Doctor for an immediate check-up.Please remember that earlier the detection,longer life is somewhat guaranteed.ACT NOW and LIVE LONG!