Improved breast exam detects smaller lumps
January 1, 1998 less than 1 minute read
Improved breast exam detects smaller lumps
A new clinical and self-exam system enables you and your patients to find breast lumps as small as 3 to 5 mm. By traditional self-examination methods, women usually don’t find lumps before they grow to the 2 cm range.
The new exam pattern, developed by Gainesville, FL-based MammaCare, covers the breast and surrounding tissue in a vertical strip pattern as opposed to the older circular pattern. Consumers and providers learn to use light, medium, and deep pressure while probing for tumors at various depths.
Better than traditional approach
A recent study concludes, "MammaCare instruction resulted in more long-term improved lump detection and examination technique use than did traditional instruction or physician encouragement."1
Training kits contain breast models that show the difference between normal and potentially harmful lumps. Videotapes take learners through step-by-step procedures. Breast health specialist Elizabeth Hale-Campoli, RN, OCN, at the Breast Health Center in Manchester, NH, calls it "the new state-of-the-art method for breast exam. Women get longer, more intense training."
MammaCare offers provider training kits for $225 and consumer kits for $69.50. The company also tailors clinical training to a facility’s request. (See box, below left.)
Reference
1. Fletcher SW, O’Malley MS, Earp JL, et al. How best to teach women breast self-examination: A randomized controlled trial. Annals of Int Med 1990; 112:772-779. t
You have reached your article limit for the month. Subscribe now to access this article plus other member-only content.
- Award-winning Medical Content
- Latest Advances & Development in Medicine
- Unbiased Content