Dr.Chris responds to to-days news headlines which suggest that checking for breast cancer is a waste of time.

Breast Cancer Examination in the Headlines.



A review of breast cancer self examination studies carried out by the Cochrane Centre in Denmark has concluded that there is no difference in breast cancer mortality rates in women who carry out rigorous self-examination and those who don't self-examine.

The review examined data taken from two studies carried out in China nad Russia. The women who carried out self-examination had a higher rate of biopsies done, almost twice the amount performed on the group that did not self-examine. Researchers concluded, "At present, screening by breast self-examination or physical examination...cannot be recommended"

Dr.Chris:

The headlines in to-days newspapers are going to confuse many women. The study also recommends that "women should be aware of any breast changes". Let me be clear about this. The easiest way to do this is for women to check their breasts once a month, not only by checking for lumps, but also looking for any differences in the size or shape of the breast, any discharge from the nipples, breast pain at a time other than during their period and any changes in skin texture such as puckering or dimpling.

If you discover a lump or have any of the above, visit your GP immediately.

You can watch our self-examination video here Breast Self examination video.


This content was created on Wed 16 July 2008

More like this
Women's Health
News and Comment
Prevention
Use this page



Privacy Terms | Advertisers | Legal Disclaimer | Contact
© 2007 TheFamilyGP.com