My last mammogram 3 years ago was clear. I received a letter back from my lastest mammogram and it requires additional information and have to go to the triple assessment specialist breast clinic. I'm worried sick
Hi - in the same boat. Though this is my first mammogram. I’m imagining the worst, which isn’t like me. I have a week until my breast clinic appointment too so a lot of time to sweat on it.
First of all, out of the number of people called to the breast clinic, 4 out of 5 people recalled are ok. They're not saying you have cancer, they just want to check to make absolutely sure there are no problems. I was recalled and I had cancer. I was seen at the breast clinic on September 1st and on September 25th I had day surgery to remove the lump they found. That was followed by a short course of radiotherapy just before Christmas, which meant I got out of cooking Christmas lunch last year! I know you're worried. I was too. It's not definite that they'll find something but, if they do, it can hopefully be dealt with quickly and fairly simply. Good luck. I hope all goes well. Gill xx
More people are recalled after their first mammogram than any other. This is because there are no previous images to compare the findings to.
I was recalled and was terrified because I had previously lost my mum to secondary breast cancer. Fortunately, I was ok. I was however, diagnosed with primary breast cancer some years later and had a lumpectomy. Within 6 months, I found a lump in my other breast, which was pre-cancerous and within the year from my initial surgery, I was diagnosed with a second primary in my original breast. I had a double mastectomy for this bout. That was all 16 years ago and I still lead a bust and fulfilling life.
I guess what I'm saying is that, I've seen the outcome from both sides and both are "doable". No amount of worrying will change the outcome, but the whole purpose of routine mammograms is to catch cancer early. I hope that all turns out well for Worried-mama and Dartington. Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.
I can imagine that this is an anxious time for you but try not to overthink it for now. Often women are recalled because an area has been spotted that needs more images. The majority of women recalled don't go on to have cancer but it is important that images of the breast are seen clearly.
Breast Cancer Now has a blog on women being recalled which you might find helpful to read.
I do hope that your appointment goes well.
Try and keep yourself busy and your mind on other things until you know more so you don't dwell on it all too much.
If you want to ring the nurses on the helpline the number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm.
A mammogram can sometimes show up an area that the doctors are not sure about, but they can't confirm what it is as more information is needed before a result can be given. This can happen to 4 out of 100 women.
Triple assessment means you may have a check by a doctor or nurse, and you will have a repeat mammogram and possibly an ultrasound scan. Depending on the results, sometimes a biopsy is needed, but not everyone needs to have a biopsy. Most women who get a recall turn out not to have cancer.
Breast Cancer Now have information on their website aboutscreening recall. This gives a little more detail about the points I have mentioned.
Waiting when you are worried is stressful, but hopefully you will know more soon. Give us a ring if you would like to talk anything over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.
