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What We Don’t Know Can Hurt: New Cancer Risk Survey from Myriad Genetics Reveals Serious Knowledge Gaps About Breast Density and Cancer Risk
New Nationwide Survey Findings Show That More Than Half of Women Do Not Know That Breast Density Can Reveal Increased Risk of Breast Cancer SALT LAKE CITY,
About this update from Myriad Genetics, Inc.
[{"type":"text","content":"New Nationwide Survey Findings Show That More Than Half of Women Do Not Know That Breast Density Can Reveal Increased Risk of Breast Cancer\nSALT LAKE CITY, July 17, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Myriad Genetics, Inc. (NASDAQ: MYGN), a leader in genetic testing and precision medicine, today announced results from its nationwide Cancer Risk Survey: Breast Cancer Edition, which revealed that a majority (63%) of women do not know that there is an increased risk of breast cancer for women with dense breasts. The survey, now in its third year, focused on understanding the role of breast density and cancer risk among women ages 18+ in the U.S. Key survey takeaways include: 44% of women do not understand breast density and 63% of women do not know there is a connection between breast density and cancer risk.Though dense breast tissue is normal, women who have it are at a slightly elevated risk for developing breast cancer.1 According to new FDA guidelines, by September 2024 all breast imaging facilities must alert patients by letter if they have dense breasts providing recommendations that they contact their care provider for follow-up and risk assessment.2 For women with dense breasts, additional screening methods such as ultrasound or MRI may be recommended together with mammography to improve cancer detection rates. \"Dense breasts present unique challenges in breast cancer screening, but awareness and proactive management can help mitigate these challenges,” said Dr. Ifeyinwa Stitt, an OB-GYN physician in Annapolis, MD. “By understanding their breast density and cancer risk, women can make informed decisions about their screening options and take proactive steps to prioritize their well-being.” Only 66% of women believe that annual breast health checks are necessary.The survey revealed that 92% of women understand that detecting cancer early means they may have more treatment options and a higher chance for better outcomes. Despite this understanding, only 66% women believe annual breast health checks are necessary. \"Finding breast cancer early is critical, as early detection can lead to improved patient outcomes,” said Edie Smith DNP, an Advanced Practice Nurse and Myriad hereditary and breast cancer subject matter expert. \"But we know that dense breast tissue makes cancers more difficult to detect with mammography alone. The fibrous...