Breast Self-Exam
Breast self-exam (BSE) is a step-by-step approach a woman can use to look at and feel her breasts.
However, BSE is not recommended as a screening tool for breast cancer.
Although it seemed promising when it was first introduced, studies have shown BSE does not offer the early detection and survival benefits of other screening tests [45].
A meta-analysis combined the results of the two largest randomized controlled trials on BSE. It compared women who did routine BSE to those who did not and found [45]:
- No difference in breast cancer survival
- Women who did BSE had more false positive results (which led to nearly twice as many biopsies with negative (no cancer found) results)
Know what is normal for you
Although BSE is not recommended for breast cancer screening, it is important to become familiar with the way your breasts normally look and feel.
Knowing what is normal for you may help you see or feel changes in your breasts.
Learn more about the warning signs of breast cancer.
Updated 07/21/16