A recent study found that a costly computer-aided detection tool used in nearly all mammograms does not improve cancer detection rates and may even result in missed cancers. The study's findings have led some researchers to advocate for ending Medicare coverage of the tool, which could save millions annually.
A large study found that computer-aided detection (CAD) for mammography did not improve diagnostic accuracy in radiologists' interpretations. Despite increased use and FDA approval, CAD's effectiveness was not supported by the results, leading to calls for reduced reimbursement or reconsideration of its continued coverage.
A large national BCSC study found that computer-aided detection (CAD) of breast cancer screening does not improve accuracy or patient outcomes. CAD raised screening costs and increased false positives, but did not detect more cancers or improve outcomes for women in screening programs.
Researchers developed a new method using gold nanoparticles to enhance mammogram imaging, improving the detection of early signs of breast cancer. The technique boosts contrast and makes microcalcifications brighter on X-rays, potentially leading to more reliable diagnosis.
A review of randomised trials on cancer screening finds that mammographic screening may not reduce breast cancer mortality as expected. The study suggests that the benefits of mammography screening are likely to have been overestimated due to an unconventional statistical method used in earlier trials.
Women who attend breast cancer screening between ages 50-69 have a 40% reduced risk of dying from breast cancer. Regular screening is also associated with a 23% risk reduction, resulting in approximately eight deaths prevented per 1,000 women regularly attending screening.
A new study by the University of Copenhagen found that women who received a false positive mammogram result showed signs of stress and depression years after the initial diagnosis was denied. Researchers are now urging for better information and support to be provided to women receiving false positives.
A new screening method, tomosynthesis, has been found to detect 40% more breast cancers than traditional mammography. The technique uses 3D X-ray images and reduces discomfort and pain during the examination.
A study found a strong correlation between breast arterial calcification and coronary artery calcification, suggesting that mammography could help identify women at risk of heart disease. The presence of BAC was linked to an increased CAC score, highlighting its potential as a preventive measure.
A comprehensive analysis confirms biennial mammography screening offers a favorable balance of benefits to harm for women ages 50-74 with an average risk of developing breast cancer. Screening strategies, including starting age and interval between exams, are analyzed to determine the optimal approach.
The debate surrounding breast cancer overdiagnosis has led to inconsistent estimates, with some suggesting up to 50% of diagnosed cancers may be overdiagnosed. Experts argue that achieving consensus is crucial for providing balanced and uncontested information to women.
A Mayo Clinic study found that US women's awareness of breast density varies significantly by race, ethnicity, household income, education level, and healthcare experiences. More than half of women reported having heard of breast density, but only 53% knew it was associated with cancer risk.
A new study found that women who understand the risks of over-detection and over-diagnosis associated with mammography screening are less likely to have a breast screening test. The Lancet study suggests that clear decision support materials can help women make more informed decisions about their screening choices.
A new commentary suggests that mandatory screening for women with dense breast tissue without careful analysis of benefits and risks is unwise. Education on the increased risk and other important factors can help healthcare providers guide recommendations for supplemental screening.
UC Davis researchers found that half of primary care physicians are unfamiliar with the law, and many don't feel comfortable discussing breast density with patients. The study suggests that increased physician education is needed to address this gap and improve patient outcomes.
A study found that risk-based screening for breast cancer in women aged 40-49 would miss over 75% of invasive cancers, potentially eliminating survival benefits. Strong family history and dense breast tissue were commonly absent in diagnosed cases.
A new study found that digital breast tomosynthesis significantly increases cancer detection in women with dense breasts. In a population-based mammography screening program, tomosynthesis improved cancer detection rates by 30-40%, particularly for invasive cancers and those with fatty breasts.
Researchers developed a device to display average pressure during compression, reducing pain and variability associated with current force-based protocol. The study found that standardizing pressure, not force, leads to more comfortable mammography without sacrificing image quality.
Researchers developed a new approach to breast cancer follow-up that considers individual risk factors. For postmenopausal women with moderate prognosis early breast cancer, less frequent surveillance may be more cost-effective, especially for those older than 70 years.
A study found that combining digital mammography with tomosynthesis screening is more effective in detecting breast cancer among women with dense breasts. This combined approach avoids false-positive results and unnecessary procedures, making it a cost-effective option.
A new study published in Radiology suggests that mammography screening for women over 75 may reduce the rate of more advanced breast cancers, leading to improved survival rates. Mammography-detected invasive breast cancer patients had a 10% reduction in mortality after five years.
A study by Yale University researchers found that Medicare spending on breast cancer screening increased significantly between 2001 and 2009, despite no corresponding decrease in new breast cancer cases. The use of digital mammography technology, which is more expensive than standard film technology, contributed to the increase.
A private South African health plan increased patient use of preventive care services like mammograms and influenza vaccines through a novel retail incentive program. The program offered discounts on retail goods and travel for participants who used preventive services, resulting in a 5% increase in uptake.
A large retrospective study published in JAMA found that 3D mammography significantly increases detection of invasive cancers (41% increase) while reducing unnecessary recalls for false alarms. The technology also improves detection of all breast cancers by 29%.
The study found that adding tomosynthesis to mammography increased cancer detection rates by 27% and reduced false-positive results, while also decreasing unnecessary tests and biopsies. This technology has the potential to optimize patient outcomes from mammography screening.
A recent study published in JAMA found that 3D mammography significantly improves detection of invasive breast cancers, reducing call-back rates by 15%. This technology has shown promise in improving breast cancer screening outcomes, particularly for younger women and those with dense breast tissue.
A new approach to mammogram interpretation takes into account a woman's health risk profile, reducing missed cancer diagnoses by 3.7% and false positives by 3.23%. The method uses statistical weighting based on profile risk to improve biopsy decisions.
Researchers analyzed the impact of mammography on breast cancer rates and found a significant decrease in late-stage diagnoses. The study attributed this decline to successful screening programs, which led to increased detection of early-stage cancers.
Researchers found that better access to healthcare can offset the natural decrease in mammogram use as a woman's life expectancy grows smaller. Women with limited life expectancy who live in areas with greater access to healthcare are more likely to be screened for mammograms.
Researchers have developed a new X-ray phase-contrast mammography technique that provides high-contrast images of breast tissue. This technique helps distinguish between different types of microcalcifications and can aid in assigning them to malignant lesions, enabling non-invasive detection of premalignant lesions.
A study found that breast tomosynthesis in diagnostic workup reduced use of ultrasound and biopsies, with higher positive predictive value for cancer compared to 2D mammography. The technology resulted in less need for additional imaging exams.
A study found that women significantly overestimated radiation exposure from a single mammogram compared to other benchmarks. To address this, medical staff should inform patients about the low dose of radiation associated with mammography and provide objective facts to ensure informed decisions.
Researchers found that false-positive mammograms have a temporary and limited impact on women's overall health and well-being. The study also showed that women who experience a false positive may actually be more likely to use breast cancer screening in the future.
Women with false-positive mammogram results experienced moderate to extreme anxiety, yet remained more likely to undergo future breast cancer screening. The study found a significant association between false-positives and increased anxiety, but not necessarily changed plans for future screening.
A systematic evidence review found daily low-dose aspirin can prevent preeclampsia complications by 24% and preterm birth by 14%, with no identified harms. A new approach to breast cancer research suggests reevaluating mammography screening and focusing on prevention through lifestyle changes.
A comprehensive review suggests that mammography screening benefits are often exaggerated while harms are understated. The study's findings emphasize the need for individualized approach to breast cancer screening based on clinical factors and personal preferences.
A review of scientific literature suggests that routine mammograms for women over 75 may not be beneficial and could lead to unnecessary treatment. The authors conclude that doctors should consider life expectancy when making screening decisions for this age group.
A new study found that full-field digital mammography (FFDM) is associated with lower recall and biopsy rates than screen film mammography (SFM), reducing the number of unnecessary diagnostic workups. FFDM implementation led to lower false positive screening exams and fewer biopsies with benign outcomes.
A Canadian study of 89,000 women aged 40-59 found that annual breast screening did not reduce mortality from breast cancer beyond physical examination or usual care. The study also revealed that 22% of screen-detected cancers were over-diagnosed, with one over-diagnosed cancer for every 424 women screened.
A new photon-counting technique improves cancer detection rates in digital mammography screening, particularly for ductal carcinoma in situ. The method reduces scattered radiation and noise, enabling lower doses and improved outcomes.
The American College of Physicians and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have released an updated adult immunization schedule for 2014. Key changes include the removal of health care worker vaccination as an indication and updated recommendations for certain adults at increased risk for Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib) i...
A study led by UCSF breast cancer expert Laura J. Esserman recommends biennial mammography screening for women aged 50-74 to save $4.3 billion in healthcare costs. This approach is equally effective as annual screening while reducing false positive results and improving women's well-being.
A study found that routine screening mammography in women aged 40-49 leads to earlier diagnosis of smaller tumors and reduced chemotherapy use. The researchers concluded that annual screenings starting at age 40 saves lives by identifying breast cancers in initial stages.
A re-examination of large breast cancer screening studies reveals a substantial reduction in mortality rates for women undergoing screening. The results suggest that the estimates of women needed to be screened to prevent one death vary significantly, but can be standardized to a similar scenario.
A study found that women who had more frequent screening mammography had a significantly lower rate of lymph node positivity, improving patient prognosis. The researchers suggest that following guidelines recommending annual screening beginning at age 40 may benefit breast cancer patients.
A large screening study found that 3D mammography increased breast cancer detection by 22% and reduced recall rates. The technology improved the accuracy of suspicious findings, leading to a 46% increase in positive predictive value.
Research suggests that automated breast density measurement can predict breast cancer risk in younger women, with changes in breast density over time playing a significant role. Women under 50 are at high risk for density-associated breast cancer, and earlier mammogram screenings may be beneficial for those with denser breasts.
Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) led to reduced recall rates and an increase in cancer detection compared to digital mammography. The study found that DBT decreased the average recall rate by 1.62% and increased the cancer detection rate by 21.5%.
A new analysis by American Cancer Society researchers found that breast cancer incidence rates are converging between white and African-American women. Incidence rates increased among African Americans from 2006 to 2010, bringing their rates closer to those of white women, particularly among women aged 50-59 years.
A California-based group has developed a website to address the implications of breast density notification laws, which require patients with dense breasts to receive written notification. The group recommends an individualized risk-based approach to guiding decision-making on supplementary screening.
A new analysis confirms the importance of regular mammography screening in reducing breast cancer deaths, especially among younger women. The study found that 71% of confirmed breast cancer deaths occurred in the 20% of patients who did not receive annual mammograms.
A new analysis reveals that regular mammograms before age 50 significantly reduce breast cancer deaths in younger women. The study analyzed data from invasive breast cancers diagnosed between 1990 and 1999, finding that only 13% of cases occurred in women aged 70 or older.
A new study published in Radiology found that digital tomosynthesis reduces the recall rate in breast cancer screening, particularly in younger women and those with dense breast tissue. The addition of tomosynthesis resulted in a 30 percent reduction in overall recall rate, compared to conventional mammography alone.
A new study at Rhode Island Hospital found that academic medical centers have higher recall rates for mammography than community radiology centers. The study, led by Dr. Ana Lourenco, found that younger patients and those with previous surgeries or biopsies were more likely to be recalled.
A new study published in Radiology found that hospital mammography recall rates are higher than those at community office practices. The study, which analyzed data from 2008 to 2011, identified patients with previous surgeries and biopsies as a key factor contributing to the increased recall rate.
Despite new recommendations, women in their 40s continue to get routine breast cancer screenings at the same rate as before, with insurance coverage being a key reason for persistence. The study's findings highlight the ongoing challenges in changing behavior and the influence of societal factors on individual decisions.
A new study suggests that digital direct radiography (DR) is significantly more effective than computed radiography (CR) in detecting breast cancer. DR detected 4.9 cancers per 1,000 mammograms, while CR's detection rate was 21% lower, with 3.4 cancers per 1,000 mammograms.
A large-scale trial found that integrated 2D and 3D screening detected more cancers and reduced false positives compared to 2D screening alone. The study showed a rate of 5.3 cancers per 1,000 screens detected by 2D screening versus 8.1 with combined 2D and 3D screening.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet developed a method to assess tamoxifen's effect on breast cancer, using mammograms. Women showing a 20% reduction in breast density have a 50% reduced risk of dying from breast cancer over 15 years.
Despite USPSTF recommendation, mammogram rates among women between 40 and 49 have not declined. A study from Brigham and Women's Hospital found a slight increase in mammography rates between 2008 and 2011.