Health Update: FDA's New Rule for Mammogram Screening Focuses on Breast Density

FDA Implements New Rule for Mammogram Screening

Mammograms conducted in the US will now screen for breast density. The new rule, effective September 10, marks a major step that could enhance the detection of hidden cancers. Approximately half of women over the age of 40 have dense breasts, a factor that increases the risk of developing breast cancer while also complicating the detection of cancerous formations in standard mammogram screenings.

Importance of Breast Density in Cancer Detection

In cases of high breast density, various screening methods, like ultrasounds or MRIs, may prove more effective at identifying tumors. Patients and doctors have long advocated for the inclusion of breast density in screenings, passionately presenting their case to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and lawmakers. This campaign culminated in a pivotal meeting at the FDA this summer, leading to the introduction of the new rule.

Understanding Breast Tissue

The new regulations dictate that mammogram reports will assess the ratio of fatty tissue to fibroglandular tissue. A greater proportion of fibroglandular tissue indicates denser breasts, which can obscure tumors on a mammogram. This is problematic, as both the fibroglandular tissue and cancerous spots appear white on the screening, while fatty tissue shows up as black, gray, or colorless.

The Path Forward

Although the new rule does not specify mandatory follow-up procedures, health providers should advise patients with dense breasts to consider additional screening options. Earlier this year, JoAnn Pushkin, the executive director of DenseBreast-info, shared her distressing story of a late cancer diagnosis. Despite a lack of significant risk factors and regular screenings, JoAnn discovered her breast cancer at stage four, primarily due to dense breast tissue obscuring the cancerous cells.

Over the years, JoAnn has undergone multiple surgeries and treatments and remains an active advocate for awareness regarding breast density in cancer screenings. She celebrates the new FDA rule, while lamenting the timing, as many of her fellow activists have tragically lost their lives to undetected cancers.