Recently, the Sage Program learned that the COVID-19 vaccine could lead to false-positive mammograms. The vaccine can cause enlarged lymph nodes under the arm into which the vaccine dose was injected, which then can appear as alarming spots on mammograms that can be difficult to distinguish from breast cancer. Enlarged nodes and swelling from the vaccine are harmless and considered a normal response. Nodes should return to normal size and swelling should resolve within four to six weeks following the second vaccine dose.
Although there has not been a consensus on whether to delay recommended mammograms after receipt of vaccine, the Society of Breast Imaging (SBI) recommends women schedule imaging before the COVID-19 vaccination, or if this is not possible, consider scheduling exams four to six weeks following the second vaccine dose.
Sage continues to schedule routine breast and cervical cancer screenings, and encourages women to receive their COVID-19 vaccines as soon as they are able. Women should talk with their doctors about the timing of their mammograms. More specifically:
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Women who have scheduled or have already received the COVID-19 vaccine should work with their providers to schedule or reschedule mammograms following SBI or provider guidelines.
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Women who have not yet scheduled or had the vaccine should work with their providers to schedule mammograms when due.
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Women who have signs or symptoms of breast cancer including breast pain, lump, or other changes should schedule a mammogram immediately, regardless of the date of the second COVID-19 vaccine dose.
We encourage you to reach out if you have questions. Please contact your Regional Coordinator or our Sage Call Center at 1-888-643-2584. Thank you for providing care to Sage-eligible women.
Director, Sage Cancer Screening Program
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