Breast Screening Results

Version 11 | Updated 22nd June 2026

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Breast Screening Results

Patient Information

Breast Screening Unit, Thomas Linacre Centre

Author ID: GE
Leaflet Ref: BSC 004
Version: 11
Leaflet title: Breast Screening Results
Date Produced: April 2026
Expiry Date: April 2028

Introduction

Thank you for attending for breast screening. Please read the following carefully, this will explain what happens next.

You will receive a letter to your home, normally within 2 to 3 weeks of your visit. If your mammograms are normal, then no further action is necessary, and you will be invited again for screening every 3 years until you have reached your 71st birthday.

What if I need to be recalled?

Your results may say further tests are required. Around 4 out of every 100 women screened are recalled for further imaging. You are more likely to be recalled after your first mammogram.

Most women that are recalled may have normal breast change or a benign (not cancer) condition.

If you do need to be recalled you will be invited to attend the Breast Screening Unit at the Thomas Linacre centre, Wigan, where you may have another mammogram, an ultrasound scan or a biopsy. A doctor will explain the reason you have been recalled.

What should I do if I have identified a symptom, but my screening result is normal?

You may have identified a symptom at the time your screening mammogram but have received a normal screening mammogram result. If the symptom changes or you become more worried about the symptom, it is important to seek advice from your General Practitioner (GP).

I have reached the age of 71, what now?

Once you have reached the age of 71 you will no longer be automatically invited for screening, but you can still have a screening every 3 years by telephoning the Breast Screening Unit. Please contact the unit on the telephone number 0300 707 5899 to make an appointment:

What should I do if anything changes?

If you notice any changes in your breasts, at any time between the 3 yearly screening period, do not hesitate to see your doctor immediately.

A very small number of breast cancers do not show up on the initial screening or they may develop during the 3-year period, therefore the changes to look out for are: