Mammogram

False-negative results in mammograms can occur, missing approximately 1 in 8 breast cancers. Women with dense breasts are more likely to experience false-negative results, which can lead to a false sense of security. It is crucial to consult a doctor if you experience new breast symptoms, even if your recent mammogram was normal, as additional tests may be necessary to investigate further. On the other hand, false-positive results can cause anxiety and lead to unnecessary tests, such as diagnostic mammograms, ultrasound, or biopsies, to confirm the absence of cancer. Overdiagnosis is another concern, as mammograms can detect cancers that may never cause harm or spread, resulting in overtreatment for some women. Lastly, it is important to consider the cumulative radiation exposure from mammograms over time, although the individual amount of radiation in each screening is low.