Consultations for breast disease in general practice and hospital referral patterns

Br J Surg. 1987 Nov;74(11):1020-2. doi: 10.1002/bjs.1800741121.

Abstract

As part of the evaluation of a health education campaign about breast disease, consultations for breast problems were monitored in five general practices over an 18-month period in Edinburgh. No increase was found as a result of the campaign, nor was there any increase in the number of biopsies performed. On average, each GP saw 13 women with breast problems each year, a rate of 1.6 per cent; 29 per cent were referred to hospital, regardless of their age. The most common presenting symptom was pain (47 per cent), with 35 per cent complaining of a lump. The reasons for hospital referral are discussed. It is suggested that GPs may refer too many young women to a specialist clinic, although this may be inevitable.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Biopsy
  • Breast Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Breast Diseases / pathology
  • Evaluation Studies as Topic
  • Family Practice
  • Female
  • Health Education*
  • Hospitals
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Referral and Consultation*
  • Scotland