A recent study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that women who have to go back for more screening after receiving what’s called a “false positive” on a mammogram were more likely to delay getting that test again.
According to Dr. Michael Guenther, in an interview with Local 12, the first thing people should know is that when it comes to these diagnostic images, “The intent is to find something if it’s there.”
And, it’s not uncommon for women to be called back after a mammogram for additional screening.
In the study, most women delayed several months beyond whatever was recommended. Guenther says he is not worried about this time frame – a few months – but longer delays can often lead to more concerning results.
Click here to watch Dr. Guenther talk to Local 12’s Liz Bonis.
Since mammography guidelines are different for women depending on age and family history, it’s best to ask your own doctor about how often you should have the test.
