DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically proven, progressive, recurrent or metastatic breast cancer in patients over 70 years of age Measurable or evaluable disease required, including: Lesions of the mediastinum, retroperitoneum, or liver at least 3 cm in diameter on CT scan or ultrasound The following are not considered measurable or evaluable: Lymphedema Hilar enlargement Pleural effusion Ascites Bone marrow infiltration Osteoblastic skeletal lesion No CNS metastases Hormone receptor status: Not specified