Statewide breast cancer study. South Dakota Tumor Registrars' Association

The South Dakota Tumor Registrars' Association reviewed breast cancer cases in South Dakota for the years 1983 and 1988. There were 225 cases in the 1983 group and 266 cases in the 1988 group. Data from this project revealed over 16% of patients in both groups had positive family histories for breast cancer. More cases in 1988 (119) were Stage I as compared to 1983 (69) suggesting earlier detection through increased awareness of the dangers of this disease by improved educational programs from 1983 to 1988, and the increased use of mammography in 1988 (86.8% of patients) as compared to 1983 (48% of patients). Modified radical mastectomy was the initial therapy in the majority of cases in both groups. Segmental resection followed by radiation therapy was the initial local therapy for 13 patients in 1988 as compared to six patients in 1983. Hormone receptor analysis was obtained in over 70% of patients in both groups. Adjuvant drug therapy was given to 25% of patients in both groups. Only two patients in 1983 and one patient in 1988 were entered on national research protocols.