Low-Dose Chest CT-Participating in the Rise of Breast Density Awareness

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Oncology
• Breast Imaging

Background:

• Breast density is a significant risk factor for breast cancer.
• Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for lung cancer identifies breast density.
• Correlation between CT and mammographic breast density assessment is established.

Purpose of the Study:

• Assess awareness of breast density among women in LDCT lung cancer screening.
• Confirm correlation between CT and mammographic breast density.
• Determine utilization rates of supplemental breast cancer screening.

Main Methods:

• English-speaking women with dense breasts on LDCT from the I-ELCAP program participated.
• Participants completed a questionnaire on breast density awareness and knowledge.
• Mammogram reports were analyzed for density; discordant cases were reviewed by a radiologist.

Main Results:

• 89% of participants were aware of their dense breasts.
• 64% did not receive additional breast cancer screening.
• CT and mammogram density were concordant in 87% of cases.

Conclusions:

• Low adherence to supplemental screening recommendations was observed in women with dense breasts.
• Enhanced education on the benefits of supplemental screening is warranted.
• Clarifying breast density assessment between CT and mammography may improve screening adherence.