A systematic random sample of 1 in 40 of the electoral register for the four Cardiff parliamentary constituencies drew responses from 2254 women. Breast self examination (BSE) was reported by 53% with 8% failing to answer. Nearly two-thirds of the women who undertake BSE report doing so because of media influence and one-quarter as a result of their general practitioner‘s advice. However only 33% reported that their frequency of examining was monthly. As this frequency is considered to be a necessary condition for correct screening then 67% of those practising BSE are doing so incorrectly, irrespective of other aspects of their technique. If the enthusiasm women have reported for BSE is to be productive then more specialist training and advice needs to be given.