Anxiety after an abnormal screening mammogram is a serious problem
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Updated: May 29, 2026

Detection of Architectural Distortion in Prior Mammograms via Analysis of Oriented Patterns
Published on: August 30, 2013
Claudia M G Keyzer-Dekker1, Jolanda De Vries, Lotje van Esch
1Department of Surgery, Medical Center Alkmaar, The Netherlands.
Purpose:
The aim of this study was to analyze the possible negative psychological consequences of a false positive screening mammogram (FPSM). We compared anxiety evoked by first (FSM) versus repeat screening mammogram (RSM). Questionnaires were completed prior to the diagnosis and during follow up.
Results:
No differences in anxiety, depressive symptoms, and Quality of Life (QoL) were found between FSM (N = 186) or RSM (N = 296) groups. All women experienced high anxiety before diagnosis was known. High trait anxiety was predictive for more anxiety, depressive symptoms, and lower QoL. Women with low score on trait anxiety were more momentary anxious in FSM group compared with RSM group (p = 0.048).
Conclusion:
Negative psychological consequences after an FPSM are seen in all women. These effects are strengthened by personality and timing of the screening mammogram. All women should receive correct information concerning the negative psychological effects and should be offered psychosocial support if needed.
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