Effect of breast self-examination on early detection of breast cancer and its prognostic value : a metaanalysis

Objective To assess the efficacy of early detection of breast cancer and the prognostic value of breast self-examination (BSE). Methods Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving BSE were included the present meta-analysis based on their qualities. The pooled analysis was performed with RevManv 4. 2. 8. Results Three RCTs were identified and then they were included the present metaanalysis. In women who conducted a BSE,the rate of biopsy fora lump in breast was 1.27% in the first 5 years,2. 47% in more than 5 years but less than or equal to 10 years, and 2. 50% in more than 10 years, respectively, all of which were significantly higher than in those who could not conduct a BSE (P 0. 05). Conclusion The rate of biopsy for a lump in breast in women could be increased by a BSE, which should not have been discarded from the early detection of breast cancer completely despite it is not helpful in increasing the rate of final diagnosis and decreasing the mortality for breast cancer. Key words: Breast self-examination; Breast neoplasms; Meta-analysis