Breast self-examination competency: an analysis of self-reported practice and associated characteristics.

Of 308 Baltimore, Maryland women surveyed by telephone, 76.3 per cent reported having performed breast self-examination (BSE) during the last year, with only 35 per cent reporting monthly BSE. Four BSE ability scores showed that most women had little knowledge of the proper BSE technique. Utilization factors, socioeconomic status, and knowledge/attitude about cancer were not related to BSE competency. Higher BSE competency scores were related to performing BSE at the recommended interval, having been taught the procedure by a health professional, and perceived confidence in BSE practice were also related to proper performance.