False-Positive Mammograms: A Reminder to Stay on Schedule

A new study from the University of California-Davis Health has brought attention to the issue of false-positive mammograms and their potential impact on women’s willingness to continue with future screenings. Despite the anxiety caused by false-positive results, the study emphasises that staying on track with regular mammograms is crucial for the early detection of breast cancer.

What the Study Revealed

The study, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, analysed data from over 3.5 million screening mammograms performed on more than 1 million women aged 40 to 73 across the United States. The findings revealed that women who received a false-positive result—which required additional imaging or biopsy—were significantly less likely to return for their next screening.

• 77% of women with a negative result returned for their next screening.
• This percentage dropped to 61% after a false-positive requiring further imaging.
• If a biopsy was recommended, only 67% of women returned for their next mammogram.

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The numbers are even more concerning for women who experienced two consecutive false positives—only 56% returned for their next screening. The emotional and financial strain caused by false positives appears to be discouraging many women from keeping up with regular mammograms.

Why This is Concerning

Lead researcher Dr. Diana Miglioretti explained that avoiding future mammograms after a false-positive result can be dangerous. False-positive results, while not indicative of cancer, can be associated with an increased risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer later on. The emotional toll of receiving such results is understandable, but it’s important for women to recognise that continued screening is essential for early detection.

Additionally, the study highlighted a troubling disparity: Asian and Hispanic/Latinx women were less likely to return for future screenings after a false positive, which may exacerbate existing health disparities.

Understanding False-Positives

False-positive mammograms are relatively common, particularly among younger women. In fact, false positives occur in 10-12% of mammograms in women aged 40-49, and after ten years of annual screenings, 50-60% of women can expect to experience at least one false-positive. However, it’s essential to remember that most false positives do not lead to a cancer diagnosis.

“Most women recalled for additional imaging do not have breast cancer,” Miglioretti said. “It is a normal part of the process, and it should not deter women from returning for future screenings.”

Tips for Managing Anxiety Around Mammograms

If you find yourself anxious about mammogram results, here are a few tips to consider:

1. Request on-the-spot results – Some facilities offer immediate interpretations of mammograms, which can help alleviate the stress of waiting.
2. Ask questions – If you receive a false-positive result, ask your doctor to explain what it means. Understanding that it’s not an immediate cause for alarm can help put your mind at ease.
3. Stay informed – Recognise that false positives are common and that follow-up imaging is just a precautionary step. Remaining diligent with your screenings is vital for your long-term health.

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Conclusion

While false-positive mammograms can cause emotional distress and financial burden, it’s important not to skip future screenings. Regular mammograms are key to early detection and can save lives. Women should work closely with their healthcare providers to understand their results and stay on top of their screening schedules.

This article draws on research originally published in Science Daily, summarising the study conducted by UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center. The original research was funded by the National Cancer Institute and other national health bodies.

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