[Prevention of breast cancer. An initiative launched by the Varese/3 southern outer health consortium (author's transl)]

Abstract

The results of a breast tumour prevention campaign conducted in 1977-78 by the Varese/3 Southern Outer Health Consortium are described. All women aged 30-65 yr were asked to come for a clinical examination of the breast by suitably trained midwives. Periodic self-examination was explained on this occasion and a card was prepared with historical data for evaluation of the risk factors. 4708 of the 8226 women approached came for examination (57%). Of those subjected to further diagnostic tests, 170 are still under out-patient control, while 34 have been hospitalised with a neoplastic incidence of the order of 1.28%, coupled with a pathological picture with various probabilities of degeneration. On the whole, it is felt that the most useful feature of the venture was its contribution towards the health education of the female population, and its bringing out of risk factors. A favourable judgement is passed on the campaign and its continuation is suggested.