I am honored to be a part of an advocacy program for Breast Density Awareness in Ireland.  Beingdense.com was started by Siobhan Freeney, a breast cancer survivor since 2015.  She is following in the footsteps of Dr. Nancy Cappello in promoting awareness of breast density in Ireland.  Have a look at her website and blog page.  

​3D mammography (DBT-Digital Breast Tomosynthesis) has been promoted to the public as the “latest and greatest” form of mammographic imaging. Mammography centers have been slowly converting their systems to 3D units, as many feel pressure to keep up with their imaging competitors. Research has shown that 3D imaging significantly decreases call-back rates, however the cancer detection rate has only been shown to increase by 1-2 incidences/1000 patients.  This month a study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found no significant difference in the cancer detection rate of 2D full-field digital mammography vs. 3D mammography. Perhaps those who are being persuaded to have 3D mammography should look further into the necessity of such imaging. It is important to note that in most cases a 2D image is also acquired when a 3D image is obtained, thus doubling radiation dose.  Additionally, many insurance carriers do not cover the cost of screening with 3D. Be aware of your care!

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I recently wrote this article for Beekley Medical and it was published on their blog page.  Enjoy!

On Thursday, February 23rd, I attended a hearing at the Connecticut State Capitol for Senate Bill 810.  The bill is up for review and would entitle women with dense breast tissue the right to a screening breast ultrasound with no out-of-pocket payment.  The proposed bill states that regarding insurance coverage "No such policy shall impose a copayment or deductible for an in-network mammogram or comprehensive ultrasound examination."  I spoke in support of this bill, along with Jan Kritzman and Heidi Grise.  Both Jan and Heidi are breast cancer survivors who have dense breast tissue and their cancers were detected only by screening breast ultrasound.  I cannot stress enough the value of  screening breast ultrasound in dense breast tissue.   Small, invasive cancers are frequently found on ultrasound in patients with a negative mammogram.  Early detection allows for easier treatment to the patient and saves lives. Every woman with dense breast tissue should be able to undergo screening breast ultrasound without the worry of additional cost.  In addition to our in-person testimonies, there were 18-20 written testimonies also submitted in support of the bill.  The next step is the State Senate.  Let's keep our fingers crossed that the bill passes and all women with dense breast tissue will be covered by insurance for their screening breast ultrasound!

This past Saturday evening I attended the 8th annual Are You Dense? Music Fest, as both a guest and an award recipient.  I was honored with the "Champion" award and my close friend, and breast cancer advocate, Jan Kritzman, was given the "Queen Esther" award.  It was a truly memorable evening and I am very appreciative to Dr. Nancy Cappello for acknowledging myself and Jan at such a wonderful event.  Nancy has advanced the field of breast imaging across the U.S. and worldwide, through the use of screening breast ultrasound in patients with dense breast tissue.  I encourage women to view her website, www.areyoudense.org, and learn for yourself the great impact of breast ultrasound in detecting cancers in patients with dense breast tissue.  

The American Cancer Society released new recommendations yesterday for screening mammography.  They are recommending that women of average risk begin screening mammography at age 45.  With the new recommendations, women ages 45-54 should be screened annually, and 55 and older should begin biennial screening, with the opportunity to screen annually if they wish.  

The American College of Radiology and the Society of Breast Imaging continue to recommend that women have yearly mammograms beginning at age 40.  

As a practicing breast radiologist, I have diagnosed breast cancers in women of all ages, many younger than 40.  I have seen late stage cancers in older women who skipped a yearly mammogram, or two.  I have followed many women who are breast cancer survivors, thanks to early diagnosis and treatment.  I am a strong believer that mammography saves lives.  I urge women to be knowledgeable about their care and understand the benefits of screening mammography.  Please take the time to check out these two websites for more information.

End the Confusion  and Mammography Saves Lives