Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent cancers among women, with 13 percent of women—approximately one in eight—receiving a diagnosis in their lifetime. Early detection and advanced technology are vital to improving survival rates and treatment success.
Here are three important ways that updates in breast cancer screening and technology have the potential to significantly improve early detection, according to the experts at the Center of Excellence for Breast Cancer at The Tisch Cancer Institute at Mount Sinai.
Elisa Port, MD, FACS
New Mammogram Guidelines
In 2024, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommended that women begin regular mammograms at age 40, shifting from the previous guideline of age 50. Mount Sinai strongly supports this important change, as it can lead to earlier detection and a reduction in late-stage breast cancer cases.
“Starting mammograms at age 40 can facilitate earlier diagnoses, which are crucial for effective treatment,” says Elisa Port, MD, FACS, Chief of Breast Surgery for the Mount Sinai Health System and Director of the Dubin Breast Center. “An annual mammogram can mean the difference between catching a cancer early when it’s most treatable or missing it entirely. Mount Sinai Mammogram May® is about reminding women that they have the power to take control of their health. We urge women to schedule their screenings.”
Advances in AI for Mammography and Breast Ultrasound
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming mammography and breast ultrasound, significantly improving diagnostic capabilities. AI algorithms can analyze mammogram and breast ultrasound images with advanced precision, and have become a powerful tool in identifying potential abnormalities that traditional methods might overlook.
Laurie Margolies, MD, FACR FSBI
“Artificial intelligence is a phenomenal tool. It does not replace the expertise of our radiologists—it enhances it,” said Laurie Margolies, MD, FACR, FSBI, Vice Chair Breast Imaging, Mount Sinai Health System, and Chief of Breast Imaging at the Dubin Breast Center. “It gives us an added set of eyes, highlighting areas that deserve closer scrutiny. That means more accurate results and, ultimately, better outcomes for our patients.” Mount Sinai has performed more than 100,000 AI-assisted mammograms as of March 2025.
FDA Ruling on Breast Density
The FDA recently mandated that mammogram reports include uniform information about breast density. Dense breast tissue can obscure tumors on mammograms and is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.
“This new requirement will provide women with essential information about their breast density, helping them make informed decisions about additional imaging if needed,” says Dr. Margolies. “We are committed to offering comprehensive care and using all available information to enhance screening accuracy at all of Mount Sinai’s breast health locations.”
Improving your chances of survival often begins with early detection. Mount Sinai encourages women to stay informed, be empowered, speak with their health care professional, and access the latest technologies and interventions as needed.