What is the USPSTF stance on Breast Self-Examination (BSE) and Clinical Breast Examination (CBE)?

The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has evaluated the value of Breast Self-Examination (BSE) and Clinical Breast Examination (CBE) in breast cancer screening. The critical stance they have taken is unfavorable towards routine BSE and CBE as standalone screening methods.

The rationale behind this position stems from evidence demonstrating that BSE does not significantly reduce breast cancer mortality rates and may lead to increased rates of unnecessary biopsies and anxiety due to false-positive results. Similarly, while CBE is sometimes used in conjunction with mammography, the USPSTF has expressed concerns about its effectiveness as an independent screening strategy. The lack of evidence supporting the efficacy of CBE in reducing mortality rates contributed to a recommendation against its routine use.

Thus, the unfavorable stance reflects a thorough review of the available evidence suggesting that these methods do not provide sufficient benefit in the reduction of breast cancer mortality compared to other established screening practices, such as mammography.