Hey Callaloo, I get you on this issue. Like you, My history of mammograms always showed something, that always was just dense breast tissue and benign cysts. So, in 2020 when our local hospital in my small hometown in NM closed all routine exams due to Covid, I didn’t worry. I figured I would wait a year or so and continue my exams. Usually the exams would include the mamo followed with the worrisome ultrasound with several techs and the radiologist checking me out. (Very stressful). They would confer and pronounce me all clear.
This year, first time in my breast history, I could feel a lumpy place. Yes, it was the real thing. That was March thru July. Now, I am at Mayo, having completed my lumpectomy. Beginning treatment soon.
I am so thankful that I found the lump and pestered our local hospital to get me in. (The hospital kept changing appointments due to the overflow of missed Mammo exams during Covid).
I am now a super advocate for self exam and the yearly exams. Who knew? Dense tissue + hormones = bad news