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Bringing evidence to health screening debates

Constantine Gatsonis, a leading researcher on cancer screening studies, emphasizes the importance of rigorously produced evidence in health screenings. His work has shed light on the accuracy, cost-effectiveness, and impact of various screening methods, including digital mammography and tomosynthesis.

Radiologists detect breast cancer in 'blink of an eye'

A new study by Brigham and Women's Hospital investigators shows that trained radiologists can identify abnormal mammograms at better than chance levels when shown images for only half a second. The researchers found that finer details of breast tissue texture help radiologists make the correct diagnosis more frequently.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 29, 2016

How often should you have a mammogram? Breast density and risk can inform decision

Breast density and risk can inform decision to adjust mammogram screening frequency; average-risk women with lower breast density may safely extend screening interval to once every three years. Higher-risk women with dense breasts would reap greater benefit from annual screening, according to the American College of Physicians.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 22, 2016

New report presents bundled payment model for breast cancer screening

A new report by the Harvey L. Neiman Health Policy Institute proposes a bundled payment model for breast cancer screening, which could help reduce healthcare costs and improve patient adherence to screening guidelines. The model includes mammography and downstream diagnostic imaging services within a 364-day episode window.

SourceHarvey L. Neiman Health Policy Institute·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateAug 18, 2016

Making a safe procedure even safer

A comprehensive modeling study found that breast cancer screening with digital mammography poses only a small risk of radiation-induced breast cancer for most women. However, the research showed increased risk for women with large breasts or breast implants. The study suggests biennial screening from ages 50 to 74 may be the safest opt...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 11, 2016

One very brainy bird

A new study finds that pigeons can accurately categorize digitized microscope slides and mammograms of benign and malignant human breast tissue. With training, they perform as well as humans in this task, demonstrating a remarkable ability to perceive and process visual cues.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 18, 2015

Mammography screening: Only 1 in 3 women is well-informed

A new study published by Bielefeld University found that only one in three women participating in Germany's mammography screening programme (MSP) are well-informed about it. The study also showed that women with higher levels of education and those from Turkish migration backgrounds are more likely to make an informed decision.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 4, 2015

Study combats 'anxiety' as barrier to breast cancer screening

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Radiology describes a successful intervention to decrease anxiety related to mammography, increasing breast cancer screening rates. The study found that information about the logistics and outcomes of mammography reduced anxiety and improved understanding among participants.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateOct 22, 2015

Later age recommended for first screening mammogram

The American Cancer Society recommends starting annual mammography screening at age 45 for average-risk women. Women between 40-44 can choose to begin annual screening. Clinical breast examination is no longer recommended due to lack of clear evidence on its effectiveness in detecting breast cancer.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateOct 20, 2015