Oct. 26, 2024 — This month, in observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Society of Breast Imaging (SBI) is intensifying its efforts to promote early detection and provide crucial resources for breast imagers and the broader medical community. With breast cancer as one of the leading causes of cancer death in women worldwide, annual screenings beginning at age 40 results in the greatest mortality reduction, the most lives saved and the most life years gained (LYG), reducing the risk of death by up to 40% for women between 40 and 74.
Linda Moy, MD, FSBI, president of SBI, stated, “We are steadfast in our commitment to saving lives through early detection. Annual mammograms starting at 40 remain the most effective tool for early diagnosis, significantly reducing mortality rates. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we are doubling down on our message to spread awareness and provide healthcare professionals with the tools they need to improve early detection.”
For nearly 40 years, the Society of Breast Imaging (SBI) has remained unwavering in its recommendation for annual mammograms starting at age 40, recognizing early detection as the best defense against breast cancer. While the recent U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) update aligns more closely with SBI’s guidance, conflicting recommendations over the years have created unnecessary confusion. SBI firmly holds that only yearly screenings offer the consistency needed to detect breast cancer at its earliest stages, saving more lives. As evidence continues to affirm the life-saving benefits of regular mammography, SBI’s message remains clear: annual mammograms are essential.
As SBI approaches its 40th anniversary in 2025, the organization is using this milestone to raise awareness about early detection and offer a wide range of resources to support breast imagers during Breast Cancer Awareness Month and beyond.
SBI’S BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH INITIATIVES
Complimentary Webinars
SBI will offer two live webinars in October, aimed at advancing the knowledge and skills of breast imagers:
- From Detection to Management: An Updated Overview of Architectural Distortion in the Era of DBT
- October 8, 8–9 p.m. EDT
- Speakers: Cedric W. Pluguez-Turull, MD, and Derek L. Nguyen, MD.
- Multidisciplinary Approach to the Implementation of Risk Assessment in a Breast Imaging Practice
- October 11, 8–9 p.m. EDT
- Speaker: Mai Elezaby, MD
New Podcast Series
The SBI Podcast will debut its inaugural episode this October, featuring insightful discussions on key issues impacting breast imaging. Episode one will cover topics such as the economic outlook for breast imaging, important updates on the Find It Early Act, and a detailed look into evaluation and management codes. Dr. Dana Smetherman, CEO of the American College of Radiology, the first guest, will provide expert commentary and valuable insights.
SBI News
The October issue of SBI’s quarterly newsletter will focus on Breast Cancer Awareness, offering valuable insights through a range of articles. Featured article titles include Mammography Educators, Dense Breast Information, and My Density Matters, along with additional timely articles relevant to the breast imaging community and will be available ahead of the issue release. Patient stories from past issues of SBI News are also featured on the site for distribution.
Research & Resources
SBI has refreshed its resources page to better serve breast imagers and healthcare professionals. The page includes:
- Evidence-Based Research: Explore high-impact studies from the Journal of Breast Imaging centered on breast cancer awareness.
- Social Media Toolkit: Download ready-made graphics and tips for effectively spreading awareness about early detection.
- Guidelines & Webinars: Access relevant studies and hot topics, key talking points, and on-demand webinars.
Dr. Moy added, “Engaging women and the breast imaging community is vital to advancing early detection. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we are committed to delivering meaningful resources and fostering conversations that underscore the life-saving power of early diagnosis.”
To learn more about SBI’s resources and Breast Cancer Awareness initiatives, click here.
May 01, 2024 
