When it comes to breast health, mammograms play a crucial role in detecting cancer early, which can save lives. However, for some women, receiving a false-positive result, a mammogram finding that appears abnormal but is later confirmed not to be cancer, can lead to stress, worry, and even hesitation to return for future screenings. If you’ve experienced this, you’re not alone. Let’s explore false positives, their implications, and why it’s essential to prioritize regular mammograms for your health.

What Is a False Positive Mammogram?

A false positive occurs when a mammogram detects something that initially looks suspicious, prompting further evaluation, such as additional imaging or even a biopsy. Thankfully, in most cases, these abnormalities are found to be non-cancerous.

While this final result is a relief, the follow-up process can take a toll. Time-consuming appointments, additional costs, and the emotional burden of worrying about a possible cancer diagnosis can make this experience stressful. Not to mention, tests like biopsies carry their own risks, however small. “The waiting times for the follow-up appointment at other clinics are what often lead people to Boutique Breast Imaging,” shared Dr. Kathryn Pearson, Founder of BBI, “In most cases, while patients call our office indicating it will take weeks to be seen at another clinic, our goal is to expedite the process, get them in to Boutique Breast Imaging and review results within a couple of days and sometimes the same day.”

What the Research Says About False Positives

A recent large-scale study by BCSC (Breast Cancer Surveillance Consortium) analyzed 3.5 million mammograms from about 1 million women across the United States between 2005 and 2017. The findings highlight a concerning trend—women who receive false-positive results are less likely to return for routine mammograms in the future.

Key findings include:

• 77% of women with a true-negative result (no sign of cancer) returned for routine screening within 30 months.

• 67% of women requiring a biopsy after a false-positive result returned for routine screening.

• Only 61% of women asked to undergo a short-interval follow-up exam (another mammogram in 6 months) came back for routine screenings.

This pattern is worrisome because mammography remains the most effective screening strategy to reduce deaths from breast cancer. Missing regular screenings due to a past false-positive experience could allow cancer to develop undetected, potentially leading to worse outcomes.

Overcoming the Impact of a False Positive

If you’ve received a false positive, it’s understandable to feel hesitant about returning for another mammogram. Many women fear a repeat experience. However, it’s essential to remember that regular mammograms are your best defense against breast cancer.

Here are a few perspectives to consider:

• A false-positive result is evidence that mammograms are effective in identifying anything unusual that requires attention, even if it turns out not to be cancer.

• Advances in imaging technology and protocols are continually improving the accuracy of mammograms.

• Your health is too important to delay screenings. Skipping a mammogram could mean missing the opportunity to catch breast cancer early, when it’s most treatable.

How Boutique Breast Imaging Supports You Through the Process

At Boutique Breast Imaging, we understand the emotions and concerns that come with mammograms—especially if you’ve experienced a false-positive result before. That’s why we are committed to offering care that goes beyond providing imaging services.

• Clarity: Our team ensures you understand your results and next steps with thorough explanations and expert guidance. As mentioned earlier, our patients often have results of their mammograms within 2 days if not the same day.

• Compassion: We know this can be a difficult experience. We provide a supportive and caring environment to make you feel reassured and confident. Boutique Breast Imaging prides itself in treating each patient like family and not just a name on our schedule.

• Commitment: Your health is our top priority. Whether you’re here for regular screening or a follow-up, we are your partners in achieving better breast health. And we walk you through each step of the process.

Our goal is to create a patient-centered experience that helps you feel supported and comforted.

It’s Time to Prioritize Your Health

Have you been putting off your mammogram because of a previous false-positive result? Don’t let that experience stop you from taking control of your health. Routine screenings remain your strongest ally in the fight against breast cancer.

Call Boutique Breast Imaging today at 904-901-0110 to schedule your mammogram. Our team is ready to provide you with expert care, compassionate support, and the information you need to feel confident taking this important step. Discover the Boutique Breast Imaging difference—your health and peace of mind are worth it.