[MQSA Updates] Prepare for increased patient interest in breast density

Leave no mammography patient behind. Moving forward, all mammography exam result letters—screening and diagnostic—will inform patients of their "dense" or "not dense" breast status. 

Sadly, despite extensive awareness efforts, a recent Myriad Genetics study reveals that 44% of women still do not understand breast density, and 63% are unaware of its connection to breast cancer. 

To make this law truly effective, ongoing patient education is crucial. 

In this edition, we've got details and tips on effective implementation of the new law and more. Let's dive in! 

[MQSA Updates] Prepare for increased patient interest in breast density

Dense breast tissue is common but has been linked to an increased risk for breast cancer and can also dramatically impact early detection. In the United States, nearly half of all women over 40 years old have dense breasts. As breast density increases, the accuracy of mammography decreases.

The FDA recently announced changes to the Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA), making breast density notification a federal requirement, effective September 10, 2024.

What you need to know: The mammography report summary provided to patients must identify whether the patient has dense or non-dense breast tissue and include a prescribed paragraph on the significance of breast density.

New patient standard language: 

The lay letter must include one of the following statements:

NOT DENSE: “Breast tissue can be either dense or not dense. Dense tissue makes it harder to find breast cancer on a mammogram and also raises the risk of developing breast cancer. Your breast tissue is not dense. Talk to your healthcare provider about breast density, risks for breast cancer, and your individual situation.”

DENSE: “Breast tissue can be either dense or not dense. Dense tissue makes it harder to find breast cancer on a mammogram and also raises the risk of developing breast cancer. Your breast tissue is dense. In some people with dense tissue, other imaging tests, in addition to a mammogram, may help find cancers. Talk to your healthcare provider about breast density, risks for breast cancer, and your individual situation.”

Download our comprehensive checklist for more details and to ensure you’re prepared.

From the Data Desk

Curious about where dense breasts are most prevalent in the USA? 

Volpara Scorecard™, a volumetric density assessment, generates data that provides valuable insights into the breast density distribution across the country. This data has the potential to help providers predict supplemental screening volume and optimize patient care. 

Before You Go … 

Effective communication and education, especially explaining the risks associated with dense breast tissue, are key to getting patients to comply with supplemental screening recommendations. Patient letters are a great place to start. 

Volpara enhances results letters with features designed to better educate about breast density. Explore our enhanced Volpara Thumbnail™ letter, which helps maximize your educational impact and improve patient engagement. 

Check it out and let us know if you have any questions or thoughts by commenting below.

Best,

Becky Weber, Executive Vice President

Volpara Health

Connect with me on LinkedIn

P.S. On September 9, our team and a coalition of advocates joined forces with Congresswoman DeLauro for a congressional briefing in support of the Find It Early Act—a bill that would save countless lives by ensuring every woman has access to essential breast cancer screenings.

Learn more about how you can support the Find It Early Act here.