03/09/2023

FDA Sets National Mammogram Standards

The goal is to protect women with dense breasts

Mammogram providers will be required to inform women with dense breast tissue that their cancer screenings may be difficult to interpretand suggest that they consult their doctors about the need for additional tests, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Thursday.

Supporters of the FDA's long-expected decision say the new standards will save lives by helping women learn about their breast density risks and potentially detect cancer earlier. Providers must implement the new regulations within 18 months, the agency said.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, after skin cancer, and the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women overall. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2023, about 297,790 women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer and some 43,700 will die of the disease.

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