Detection of breast cancer in young women.

The method of discovery of breast tumors in young women was determined for 106 patients less than 45 years of age treated for breast cancer from 1967 through 1975. The patients detected 84% of the tumors themselves. Physical examinations by physicians detected 14% of the tumors. Two percent were noted on mammography in the absence of clinical findings. Fifty-two patients had roentgenographic examination of their breasts prior to biopsy. Sixty-three percent of these examinations failed to demonstrate the cancer. The report of a normal roentgonogram contributed to a decision to defer surgical treatment in 15 instances. These 15 patients had more advanced tumors at operation.