03/17/2022
Great news from Europe for women with dense breasts all over the world. The European Society of Breast Imaging (EUSOBI) has published recommendations. They recommend MRI be used as a screening method in women with extremely dense breasts. There is compelling evidence that MRI can reduce breast cancer mortality and is cost-effective. “In light of the available evidence, in women aged 50 to 70 years with extremely dense breasts, the EUSOBI now recommends offering screening breast MRI every 2 to 4 years. The EUSOBI acknowledges that it may currently not be possible to offer breast MRI immediately but urges radiological societies and policymakers to act on this now.” They also state all women should be informed of their breast density.
In Canada, women with dense breasts have difficulty accessing even ultrasound, let alone MRI. Ultrasound finds an additional 3-4 cancers per 1000 women, missed by mammogram, while MRI finds an additional 12-16 per 1000 women. Women with dense breasts are not getting the screening they need. The evidence is there. It's great to have these recommendations out there now too. To get change in Canada, women with dense breasts will have to express to their healthcare providers and political representatives that they are underserved. If interested, you can use this link below to the recommendations when advocating for yourself for MRI.
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00330-022-08617-6
