False-Positive Findings
Breast cancer screening test results may appear to be abnormal even though no cancer is present. A false-positive test result (one that shows there is cancer when there really isn't) can cause
anxiety and is usually followed by more tests (such as a biopsy), which also have risks. In fact, 80 to 90 percent of all abnormal breast cancer screen mammograms are false-positives.
Most abnormal test results turn out not to be cancer. False-positives are more common in:
- Younger women
- Women who have had previous breast biopsies
- Women with a family history of breast cancer
- Women who take hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone.
The skill of the radiologist also can affect the chance of a false-positive result.
Radiation Exposure
Being exposed to radiation is a risk factor for breast cancer. The risk of developing breast cancer from breast cancer screening mammograms is greater with higher doses of radiation and in younger women. For women older than 40 years of age, the benefits of an annual breast cancer screening mammogram may be greater than the risks from radiation exposure.
A Summary of Breast Cancer Screening
Breast cancer screening is an important part of any women's healthcare. Breast cancer screening involves mammograms every one to two years starting at age 40, clinical breast exams, and self-exams. No matter how old you are, and especially if you have
breast cancer risk factors, you should ask for medical advice about when to begin having mammograms and how often to be screened.
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