Carcinoma detection at the breast examination center of Harlem.

Background: Breast carcinoma is one of the leading causes of excess mortality rates in Harlem, an inner-city neighborhood with the highest mortality rates and worst life expectancy in New York City. This study reports the results of a breast carcinoma screening and diagnostic program in Harlem.

Methods: Retrospective review was performed of a database of 49,750 visits to the Breast Examination Center of Harlem from 1995 to 2000. During this period, 181 breast carcinomas were diagnosed in 178 women. The medical records of these 178 women were reviewed to determine the method of detection, stage, and treatment.

Results: Among these women, 89% were black or Hispanic, 45% had no medical insurance, and 38% had incomes below federal poverty guidelines. Breast carcinoma stage, known for 167 carcinomas, was Stage 0 in 38 (23%), Stage I in 38 (23%), Stage II in 63 (38%), Stage III in 24 (14%), and Stage IV in 4 (2%). Fifty-six cases (34%) were minimal breast carcinomas. Of 181 breast carcinomas, 122 (67%) were palpable and 59 (33%) were nonpalpable, detected only by mammography in asymptomatic women. Nonpalpable, as opposed to palpable, breast carcinomas were significantly more likely to be ductal carcinoma in situ (30 of 55 [54%] vs. 8 of 112 [7%], P < 0.0000001) or minimal breast carcinoma (39 of 55 [71%] vs. 17 of 112 [15%], P = 0.0000001) and were more likely to be treated with breast-conserving surgery (47 of 56 [84%] vs. 76 of 110 [69%], P < 0.04).

Conclusions: A breast carcinoma screening and diagnostic program has been established in Harlem, a traditionally underserved area in New York City. Early, curable breast carcinomas were detected but outreach remains a challenge, particularly for the uninsured.