Profile of women practicing breast self-examination

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Abstract
The monthly practice of breast self-examination (BSE) can result in the early diagnosis of breast cancer. To explore factors that influence women''s habits in the practice of BSE, 616 women were interviewed using an interactive computer program. These women were more likely to practice BSE on a frequent basis if they were living with their sexual partner, had been shown how to perform BSE, and were confident in their examination technique. Women with a maternal history of breast disease were also more likely to practice monthly BSE. Unlike past reports that women with formal education beyond high school practice BSE more frequently than less-educated women, no association between monthly BSE practice and formal education was shown. A relationship between BSE practice and the practice of other preventive health activities, was not demonstrated. Demonstrating BSE at the periodic health examination may help increase the number of women practicing BSE on a frequent basis.