Why can the emphasis on breast self-examination (BSE) be controversial?

The emphasis on breast self-examination (BSE) can be controversial primarily because it may lead to unnecessary anxiety in women. This heightened concern can stem from the fear of finding abnormalities, which may not necessarily indicate cancer or serious health issues. Many women might misinterpret normal breast tissue changes or conditions as potential signs of breast cancer, leading to increased stress and worry.

Additionally, the psychological impact of performing BSE and discovering what may appear to be irregularities can lead to later escalations such as unnecessary medical consultations, imaging tests, or even biopsies, despite the fact that many findings are benign. The concern is that the anxiety stemming from the practice of BSE might outweigh the benefits, particularly when there are more effective screening measures available, such as mammography, which are recommended at specific intervals based on age and risk factors.

In exploring other options, it’s important to recognize that BSE is not universally accepted in all demographics, as different groups have varying levels of awareness and practice with it. It is also not a foolproof method; while it can help some women become more aware of their bodies, it is not capable of detecting all breast issues, especially those that may not be palpable. The notion that BSE is not recommended post-men