Breast Self-Examination Technique Among Climacteric Women

Abstract

Objective To assess the actual steps taken in breast self-examination of climacteric women.

Subjects Three hundred and thirty-six women attending menopause clinic during September, 1995 to March, 1996.

Results Fifty-three percent of the respondents had previously received breast self examination (BSE) instruction. Not more than four percent in this group performed all of the recommended BSE steps. Nine of fourteen steps were reportedly practiced by over fifty percent and step 9 was the most commonly practiced.

Conclusion This study revealed that eventhough half of the climacteric women had previously received BSE instruction, very few women actually carried out these procedures. Appropriate selection of practical BSE steps for Thai women may be an important part in enhancement of more correctly BSE performance.