An expert system for early detection of cancer of the breast.

In order to study the relevancy of exploring complex expert systems for use by the lay public, an expert system for the early detection of cancer of the breast has been developed. The system consists of a conversion between a microcomputer and a woman who is anxious about breast cancer. The conversation is divided into two parts: one is listening to the woman's symptoms regarding the breast then giving advice, the other is an explanation of breast cancer and how to detect it in its early stages. After listening to the woman's symptoms, the computer presents its conclusion and suggests courses of action the woman should take. The system is written in Prolog. It was tried by women in a small town at a festival for health, by female patients who visit our hospital, and received a positive reaction.