[Detection of breast carcinoma: a statistical-epidemiological study of the current situation].
OBJECTIVE
Within the framework of the discussed introduction of mammography for breast cancer screening in Germany, we were interested in the actual status of breast cancer detection.


METHODS
From 1990-1994, 1019 breast cancer patients with 1050 carcinomas were inquired during primary anamnesis whether the suspicious finding was first discovered by themselves, their physician at routine examination or in routine mammography.


RESULTS
In 71.14% of the cases, breast changes were first recognised by the patient, in 12.48% palpated by the physician and 16.38% were first seen at routine mammography. Cancers discovered by physicians or mammography were in statistically significant lower tumour and lymph node stages than those found by the patient and could more often be treated by breast-conserving regimes.


CONCLUSIONS
However, most breast cancers are still first discovered by the patient and are diagnosed at higher stages than those discovered by clinical examination or mammography.
Schleicher
U M
UM
Klinik für Strahlentherapie, RWTH Aachen.
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000532:radiotherapy / Q000601:surgery; D016504:Breast Self-Examination; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008207:Lymphatic Metastasis; D008327:Mammography; D008875:Middle Aged; D010173:Palpation
Entdeckung des Mammakarzinoms--Statistisch-epidemiologische Untersuchung zum derzeitigen Stand.