The Medical Imaging and Technology Alliance (MITA) commended federal law now requiring mammography facilities to include breast density information in reports sent to patients and their physicians, stating in a recent press release that breast density information is “crucial” to ensure appropriate breast cancer screening.  

The provision was included in the most recent federal appropriations bill signed into law on Friday, Feb. 15.

The law specifies the FDA must develop standard reporting language and ensure mammography reports include a qualitative assessment of a patient's breast density, information about how dense tissue may make it more difficult to detect cancer from traditional mammograms and a reminder for patients to speak with their doctors if they have future questions.  

More than 30 states require such information to be shared with patients after a mammogram, however there had been no federal requirement until recently.  

“This legislation is an important step in ensuring patients are appropriately notified about their risk of breast cancer so they can make informed decisions about their care,” Dennis Durmis, chair of MITA’s Board of Directors, said in a prepared statement. “MITA has long supported this initiative at the state and federal level and is proud to support the patient advocates who have been fighting to ensure women are properly screened for breast cancer.”