Does mammographic screening and a negative result affect attitudes towards future breast screening?

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Preventive Medicine
• Oncology

Background:

• Mammography screening is crucial for early breast cancer detection in women aged 50-69.
• Understanding the psychological impact of screening results on future health behaviors is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess if a benign mammogram result affects women's intention to seek immediate medical help for breast abnormalities.
• To evaluate the influence of a benign mammogram result on intentions and thoughts regarding future breast cancer screening participation.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of women aged 50-69 participating in the Dutch Breast Cancer Screening Programme completed questionnaires before and after their initial mammography.
• A control group completed a questionnaire post-mammography to account for test effects.
• Changes in women's thoughts and intentions related to breast health and screening were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Most women reported satisfaction with their initial mammogram, despite some experiencing pain or discomfort.
• A benign mammogram result did not diminish women's intention to seek medical help for breast lumps; over 99% would still consider the possibility of breast cancer.
• Women generally reported more positive perceptions of screening costs and their ability to participate in future screenings after their initial experience.
• Negative experiences, such as pain, anxiety, or dissatisfaction with staff interaction, were associated with reduced intentions for future screening participation.

Conclusions:

• The Dutch Breast Cancer Screening Programme demonstrates no evidence of false reassurance from benign mammogram results.
• Continued efforts to improve first-round screening attendance are necessary, alongside prioritizing client-friendliness.
• Enhancing the initial screening experience is vital to foster positive long-term engagement with breast cancer screening programs.