Breast self-examination in breast cancer survivors

The present study evaluated the practice of breast self-examination (BSE) among breast cancer survivors and the factors which influence this practice. Most breast cancer survivors are aware of the benefits of BSE and have performed it since their diagnosis.

The number of breast cancer survivors has increased due to effective screening and improved treatment methods. However, long-term cancer survivors are at increased risk of developing breast cancer recurrence (return of the cancer) or getting cancer in the other breast. Current guidelines recommend that breast cancer survivors do a mammography (x-ray of the breast) and a physical examination by a medical professional each year and BSE monthly. The goal is to identify a cancer recurrence or a new breast cancer early on, when it is still curable.

This study included 345 breast cancer survivors who were asked to complete a questionnaire regarding BSE. 80% of these patients had performed BSE before their diagnosis. Following their diagnosis of breast cancer, 89% of the participants reported performing BSE, but only 40% performed it once a month, 39% performed BSE more than once a month and 21% less than once a month. 90% of participants reported that they were advised by a doctor or a nurse to perform BSE although only 64% were shown how BSE should be done. Patients who performed BSE more than once a month were younger and were more confident in the benefits of BSE. 

In summary, most breast cancer survivors were advised to practice BSE monthly but a large proportion of patients do not follow this schedule.

The limitations of this study come from the fact that the data from the questionnaires is self-reported, thus may provide equivocal information. Further studies should check if patients perform BSE correctly and assess the impact of this procedure on their quality of life and long-term survival.