Premier Health First in Dayton to Offer Fast Breast MRI as New Alternative to Detect Breast Cancer

Faster, Self-Pay Option Can Speed Diagnosis for Women with Dense Breasts and at Higher Risk

DAYTON, Ohio (February 8, 2021) – Women with dense breasts or at a higher risk for breast cancer can now choose Fast Breast MRI at Premier Health as a second step (following a mammogram) for breast cancer screening. This new option, which takes 10 minutes or less, is an alternative to a traditional full breast MRI, which typically takes an hour. Premier Health is the first in Dayton to offer this self-pay alternative at four locations in Southwest Ohio.

Fast Breast MRI may increase the accuracy of breast cancer screening in women with dense breasts. For women with dense breasts, the sensitivity of mammography decreases from 84 percent to 25 to 50 percent, which can lead to a later breast cancer diagnosis. A later cancer diagnosis can lead to increased tumor size and a worse prognosis. Women with other elevated breast cancer risk factors may also benefit from Fast Breast MRI, including those who cannot tolerate a traditional full breast MRI due to the exam’s length.

“Research has shown that a 10-minute Fast Breast MRI and a traditional full breast MRI have essentially the same cancer detection rate, sensitivity, and specificity,” explains radiologist Kalpesh Desai, DO, with Radiology Physicians, Inc. “Fast Breast MRI is used in conjunction with mammography, not as a replacement. Research also shows it’s more accurate than screening ultrasound.”

According to the National Cancer Institute, nearly half of all women age 40 and older who get mammograms are found to have dense breasts. Their mammograms can be harder to read, and they may be called back for follow-up tests more often. In Ohio, mammography providers are required to inform women who have a mammogram if they have dense breasts.

Fast Breast MRI is a new exam and currently not covered by insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid. The self-pay cost is $400 and a physician’s order is required. The exam is available at Atrium Medical Center in Middletown, Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton, Miami Valley Hospital North in Englewood, and Upper Valley Medical Center in Troy.

“Breast cancer remains the second most common cause of cancer death in women. Premier Health is proud to be the first in Dayton to offer women this diagnostic option that can provide them with more information about breast health, more quickly,” said Mikki Clancy, Premier Health system vice president for oncology services.

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