The presentation and management of breast symptoms in general practice in South Wales

Although there is increasing interest in the primary care management of bre ast disorders, there are few data on their presentation and management. Thi s study recorded presentation rates of breast symptoms in 34 general practi ces in South Wales. These ranged from 1.9 to 14.8 patients per GP per year (median = 6.5): 46.4% with breast lump, 28.2% with breast pain, 16.2% with lumpiness and 5.5% with nipple discharge. Fifty-five per cent of all patien ts were referred, substantially more than previously recorded. Some referra ls for breast disease may be 'inappropriate' according to current managemen t guidelines.