Mamogram Follow up

I am 45 years old, my last breast exam was 2/13/02.  They did a ultrasound and said that I had fibrocystic breast. I have not had any more mamograms since then(stupid me).  I called today to schedule an exam and the Dr.'s office said that I should have had a six month follow up from 2/13/02. I am now afraid that my condition may have gotten worse.  What are the chances of me having breast cancer with fibrocystic breast?  I feel no lumps or anything.  Also if there was a problem would it not have presented itself by now?  I am going to the radiologist in 3 days.

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear bubbis:  Fibrocystic breasts do not increase the risk for breast cancer.  They can make mammograms more difficult to read, though.  Six month follow ups are usually recommended when there is a questionable abnormality that is not suspicious for cancer but the radiologist would like reassurance by checking again in six months.  It does not mean that you had or have cancer.  The important thing is that you are getting checked now.  Hopefully, all will be okay.