Kankakee, IL – The American College of Radiology (ACR) updated its breast screening guidelines to strongly recommend that women with a genetic predisposition to breast cancer undergo breast MRI screenings in addition to traditional mammography.
Announced on Monday, March 25, 2024, this revised guidance especially targets women carrying BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, known to significantly increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
Riverside, recognized as an ACR Breast Imaging Center of Excellence, swiftly aligned with these new recommendations, emphasizing the critical role of genetic factors in breast cancer risk assessment.
The ACR’s updated guidelines list key genetic and familial risk factors for breast cancer, including not only BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations but also having a family history of the disease, personal history of breast cancer, or a family member who carries a genetic mutation and remains untested. Women with these genetic risk factors are encouraged to discuss the potential benefits of supplemental breast MRI screenings with their healthcare providers.
Dr. Niketa Kataria, a Riverside radiologist, reiterated the importance of comprehensive screening approaches for high-risk individuals. “Mammography remains the gold standard for breast cancer imaging; supplemental screening, like a breast MRI, should be considered as an additional screening to mammography, not an alternative to mammography, for women at an increased risk of developing breast cancer.”
This focused approach on genetic risk factors underscores the broader commitment to early detection and tailored screening strategies, which remain vital in the fight against breast cancer. Riverside continues to remind the community of the importance of regular screenings, advocating for yearly mammograms starting at age 40, with a more personalized screening timeline for women at higher genetic risk.
For further information on navigating breast cancer screening options, especially for those with genetic risk factors, individuals are encouraged to reach out to Riverside Outpatient Scheduling.
