After Abnormal Mammogram
An abnormal mammogram is scary, but most callbacks are not cancer. Here are your next steps.
An abnormal mammogram result does not mean you have cancer. It usually means the doctor wants a closer look. We walk you through what comes next.
Take a breath. An abnormal mammogram is frightening to read, yet it rarely means cancer. Most often it simply means the radiologist wants more images of one area. About 1 in 10 women is called back after a screening, and the large majority turn out to have no cancer. Knowing what comes next takes away much of the fear.
What does an abnormal mammogram or callback mean?
A callback means the radiologist saw something on your screening that needs a closer look, often dense tissue, a cyst or overlapping tissue. It does not mean cancer. The next step is usually a diagnostic mammogram or a breast ultrasound to get a clearer picture.
Related breast health pages
What each test is and how to get help paying for it.
Our full breast health program.
Start with a free screening.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
Ready When You Are
Do not wait on cost. Apply now and let EAESSI help you get your free mammogram.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Most women called back after a screening do not have cancer. A callback simply means more images are needed.
Many women do not. If your doctor recommends one, it is a small sample used to get a clear answer.
Schedule your follow up as soon as you can. Getting answers quickly eases worry and protects your health.