MRI Used to Screen for Breast Cancer

Prevention and Early Detection

The Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer supports research geared toward the prevention and early detection of breast cancer, among many other research developments. Our research partners at the Indiana School of Medicine are involved in a large national screening trial to evaluate a new MRI technique that would take less time and reduce costs associated with this diagnostic imaging route. More details are below, and the full article is available at the IU website.

Additional Research on Diagnostic Imaging

In addition to mammogram x-rays, MRI is now commonly used to screen for breast cancer in women who are at very high risk. However, it is still undetermined if this technology is the best form of diagnostic imaging for diagnosing breast cancer in average risk women. With the high cost involved, along with the lengthy procedure, it’s recommended that only those at the highest risk level use this form of screening. 

In order to help alleviate these challenges, IU School of Medicine’s screening trial will reduce time and associated costs, and the study will determine if MRI screening can be offered less frequently with the same benefit. 

Additionally, IU School of Medicine is participating in a national trial to see if 3D tomosynthesis is more effective than the conventional 2D mammography. Since Mammogram x-rays don’t see through dense tissue as well as they do through fat, it can be a challenge to interpret mammograms with dense breast tissue. 

Kathy Miller, MD, has recruited IU School of Medicine radiologists to join in their national study evaluating the new MRI breast imaging method. We are excited and hopeful as this trial is continuing to enroll patients. 

Learn more about our researchers here, and visit the IU School of Medicine article for more information. If you’d like to make a donation to help fund breast cancer research, visit our donation page.

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