Your Guide to the Latest Trends in Breast Cancer Prevention and Treatment

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 and patient care, 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 April, 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. “We urge women to schedule their screenings and benefit from these updated guidelines.”

 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.

Laurie Margolies, MD

“This new requirement will provide women around the country with essential information about their breast density, helping them make informed decisions about additional imaging if needed,” says Laurie Margolies, MD, Chief of Breast Imaging at the Dubin Breast Center. “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.”

 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.

“AI technology is a tool that could represent a significant advancement in breast cancer detection,” says Dr. Margolies. “Thanks to our innovative work at the Dubin Breast Center and throughout the Mount Sinai Health System, we are leading the way in implementing AI-enhanced mammography and breast ultrasound to improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.”

The Center of Excellence for Breast Cancer at The Tisch Cancer Institute at Mount Sinai celebrates Breast Cancer Awareness Month because it is an important time to embrace these advances and focus on proactive care.

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.