Risk-Based Screening Matches Mammograms' Tumor Detection

A significant study involving over 45,000 women indicates that breast cancer screening can be effectively personalized based on an individual's risk factors. The WISDOM trial demonstrated that this risk-stratified approach is as capable of detecting tumors as the current recommendation of annual mammograms for all women starting at age 40. This personalized strategy also showed a trend towards earlier cancer detection, reducing the likelihood of advanced-stage diagnoses, though not to a statistically significant degree.

The comprehensive risk evaluation included genetic testing, personal health history, lifestyle, and other factors. Women were categorized into four risk groups, with screening frequency and methods adjusted accordingly. For example, those at lowest risk delayed screening until 50, while highest-risk individuals received more frequent and advanced imaging, including MRIs. This marks a shift from the 1980s-era screening methods that did not account for varying individual risks.