[Randomized trial of breast self-examination in 266,064 women in Shanghai].

Objective: A randomized trial of breast self-examination (BSE) program was carried out to evaluate whether the intensive BSE can reduce the death number of women from breast cancer.

Methods: A total of 266,064 women (age of 30 to 64 years) associated with 519 textile factories in Shanghai had been randomly assigned to a BSE instruction group (132,979 women) or a control group (133,085 women) since 1989. Initial instruction in BSE group included demonstration of proper palpation techniques.

Randomized trial of breast self-examination in Shanghai: final results.

Background: Among women who practice breast self-examination (BSE), breast cancers may be detected when they are at an earlier stage and are smaller than in women who do not practice BSE. However, the efficacy of breast self-examination for decreasing breast cancer mortality is unproven. This study was conducted to determine whether an intensive program of BSE instruction will reduce the number of women dying of breast cancer.