Why did 30 years of mammograms miss my 2 cancers?

I have faithfully had mammograms done for over 30 years.  28 years ago I found a lump myself which the mammograms had missed.  Had a mastectomy, 17 nodes removed and reconstruction.

Now I have a cancer in the other breast and after several mammograms, several ultrasounds and an MRi am scheduled for a lumpectomy on Feb 8.

I tell you, all these procedures and all the paper work is really stressful.  I think the actual surgery will be easy in comparison!

But here's my question. How did 30 years of mammograms miss both cancers.  I discovered them both with self-examination.

Kind of makes you wonder why you should bother getting those annual mammograms, doesn't it.

Feeling frustrated and annoyed----

[japdip]

It does make one wonder, doesn't it? All I can say is that as good as the testing is, it isn't always infallible in every situation. Some things are "seen" by one method and missed completely by another. Evidently your cancers were discovered early since you seem to have had little treatment the first time but very successful. Your self examination definitely IS a part of the process and this is done monthly where as Mammograms are only yearly. You should be proud that you are  diligent and found your lumps in good time. Wishing you a speedy and uneventful recovery from your upcoming surgery. Kindest regards ....

[bundleblocker]

Thanks Japdip!  

Yes 28 years ago they didn't do much. No ultrasounds yet and no chemo was done on my breast either.  I was lucky.  The radiologist who told me about this current cancer said it was NOT a recurrence, but an entirely new cancer.  If it had been a recurrence it would have gone to one of my organs.

So I'm lucky this is a new one and only an 8mm (but invasive) ductal.  The first one was 9mm and even though they took 17 lymph nodes I had very little swelling and have never had a problem with the arm on that side.  But I was very active then, running 45 miles a week and had just completed a marathon 4 months before.  I think that made a huge difference in my recovery and I was able to return to work (and running) within 3 weeks.

I am still active, but now limit myself to only running 3 times a week and just doing an occasional race.

[japdip]

You are correct .... that type of healthy lifestyle certainly helps as far as I'm concerned I had a very rapid recovery from my mastectomy (2002) and was also fortunate when it came to post-op; treatment....none! I did have a little episode immediately with Lymphedema BUT I sought P.T. treatment and insisted on a teaching program and followed it to the letter ... no problem since. Don't forget a positive attitude is also a factor and I believe you have that also. Keep up the good work and all the best for a speedy recovery this time ..... Take care !

[bundleblocker]

Thanks!  I will let everyone know how the surgery goes on Feb 8!  

Yes, positive attitude makes a huge difference. I also am using visualization which helps a lot.  I visualize any cancers lurking as brillo pads with legs! Then I imagine them losing their foothold as I'm out running.

Whatever works LOL!