Seven hundred and seventy-nine patients presenting with breast cancer in Tasmania between 1930 and 1975 have been studied. No comparisons of different treatment have been made, but overall survival has been assessed. Median survival in the group was only 3-3 years, but 30% of patients were still alive at ten years. Other factors assessed in relation to survival were axillary node involvement, site, size, age, parity, breast feeding and place of birth.