Understanding Breast Cancer Screenings: What Happens if You’re Recalled
Breast Cancer is one of the most common cancers among young women, and when it’s caught early, it’s also one of the most treatable. Early detection through regular screenings, such as mammograms and dense breast ultrasounds, can significantly improve outcomes. But do you understand the reasons you may be recalled for more imaging after your screening mammogram?
Risk Factors for Breast Cancer
While anyone can get breast cancer, risk increases with certain factors:
- Age 50 and older
- Alcohol use, obesity, and lack of physical activity
- Early menstruation or late menopause
- Family history of breast cancer or ovarian cancer
- Genetic mutations (like BRCA1 or BRCA 2)
- Personal history of breast cancer or conditions
Understanding Being Recalled and What that Means to You
Routine mammograms are an essential part of breast health. Screenings can bring peace of mind for many women; however, sometimes the results can lead to an unexpected recall. If you have ever received a phone call or letter about your breast imaging, you understand the anxiety it may cause. The good news is that most recalls do not mean breast cancer. The radiologist reviews the screening mammogram to see if any areas need a closer look. Sometimes, a small area can look different from the previous year, yet it’s still normal tissue. A recall doesn’t mean a diagnosis-it means more information is needed. The most common reasons for being recalled from your screening mammogram include:
- Asymmetry
- Calcifications
- Dense Tissue/Overlapping Tissue
- Mass (or nodule)
- Technically suboptimal exam
Follow-up Testing Risks of Mammography Screening
Out of every 100 women who get a screening mammogram:
- 90 will be told that their mammograms are normal
- 10 will be asked to return for additional mammograms or ultrasounds
Out of the 10 being recalled:
- 6 will be reassured that their mammograms are normal
- 2 will be asked to return in 6 months for a follow-up exam
- 2 will be recommended to have a needle biopsy
What Happens During a Recall Exam?
A recall appointment is called a diagnostic exam. It can include either a mammogram or an ultrasound, or both. These images are typically different than your screening mammogram. Images are shown to a radiologist, and results are verbally given to you before you leave that day for reassurance. The goal is to clarify your initial images and provide answers. If there was an area of concern, the radiologist would explain their interpretation to you and the recommendations. A callback or recall after a screening can be common and usually precautionary. Understanding the reasons you were called back for additional imaging is very important. This part is a step in the right direction to ensure your overall breast health. It’s our way of being thorough and extra cautious. So remember, if you are asked to come back in the future, that is not a diagnosis, it’s an extra check with your imaging-and we are here for you every step of the way!
Take Action
If you have any questions, please give ECHN’s Women’s Center for Wellness: 860.533.4646.
If you have concerns about coverage for your breast imaging exam, the Early Detection Program can help! This program provides a clinical breast exam, Pap test, and mammogram free of charge to women who meet eligibility requirements. The objective of the program is to increase the number of women who receive breast and cervical cancer screenings, diagnostics, and treatment referral services. This program is available for women between 21 and 64 years of age. To see if you qualify, please call 860.872.5368.