In Ireland, women are not routinely informed whether they have dense or non-dense breasts after a mammogram – despite the fact that dense breast tissue makes cancer harder to detect and significantly increases the risk of developing it. This lack of transparency is putting lives at risk, and it must change.
We are calling on Minister for Health, Dr. Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, to introduce a Breast Density Notification Law that ensures:
1. All women are clearly informed whether they have non-dense or dense breasts after a mammogram.
2. Clear guidance is provided on what their breast density means and any additional screening options, such as ultrasound or MRI.
3. GPs receive this information so they can properly advise their patients.
This simple yet life-saving change can lead to earlier detection, better outcomes, and fewer women receiving devastating, advanced-stage cancer diagnoses.