Abstract
Because of the logistical and financial implications of large scale screening for the early detection of breast cancer, the Department of Health and Social Security in the UK established a study to compare 2 methods, mammography and breast self-examination. Screening is under evaluation in women aged 45-64 years, over a 7 yr period. Mammography is carried out in health districts based on Edinburgh and Guildford and self-examination related to a program of education in Huddersfield and Nottingham. Four other health districts, Bristol, Dundee, Oxford and Stoke, act as control areas. A Pathology Review Panel composed of pathologists from each participating center was established to verify the accuracy of the histopathological data. In particular, all lesions in the borderline between benign and malignant disease are reviewed together with all minimal carcinomas. The Pathology Panel has carried out 4 consistency surveys to improve diagnostic criteria and accuracy, and 83% agreement is now achieved with no errors across the benign/malignant border. Review of ''borderline'' cases from the study is now in progress.

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