How do women experience a false-positive test result from breast screening? A systematic review and thematic synthesis of qualitative studies.

ABSTRACT:

Background

This is the first review to identify, appraise and synthesise women's experiences of having a false-positive breast screening test result.

Methods

We systematically searched eight databases for qualitative research reporting women's experiences of receiving a false-positive screening test result. Two reviewers independently screened articles. Eight papers reporting seven studies were included. Study quality was appraised. Data were thematically synthesised.

Results

Women passively attended screening in order to prove their perceived good health. Consequently, being recalled was unexpected, shocking and disempowering: women felt without options. They endured great uncertainty and stress and sought clarity about their health (e.g. by scrutinising the wording

SUBMITTER: Long H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6738040 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature