‘Dense Breast’ Notification Law Poses Challenges For Doctors And Patients
California is among the states that require such notices. But, women "don't understand that this is a warning letter," says Dr. Barbara B. Hayden, a Santa Monica-based breast reconstruction surgeon. "That mammography isn't good enough for you and may not help you at all."
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Detecting More Cancer In 'Dense Breasts' With Automated Ultrasound Screenings
An estimated 40 percent of women have dense breasts. In recent years women have become more familiar with the term as states have passed laws requiring doctors to notify women in writing when mammograms show they have dense tissue. Capello's own non-profit has pushed for such laws, and so far, 27 states have them, including California. But it's unclear what women do differently after receiving such a letter. (O'Neill, 9/16)