September 25, 2024, marks World Dense Breast Day. After my mammogram, I sat in the waiting room in that awful paper gown, feeling surprised by the lump I had discovered. Despite leading a healthy lifestyle and regularly doing self-exams, the technician returned with news that nothing was found on the mammogram due to my dense breast tissue.
I was sent for an ultrasound which revealed the lump and subsequent MRI confirmed that I had breast cancer. The fact that my cancer went undetected on mammograms for years due to dense breasts left me speechless. Researching later, I learned that dense breast tissue can hide cancer on mammograms and many women are unaware of their breast density.
Following a series of treatments for my advanced cancer, I focused on raising awareness about dense breasts and cancer detection. I spearheaded the effort for a state legislation in New York to inform women about their dense breasts and the need for additional screening tests. The bill passed successfully, setting a precedent for other states to follow.
Recognizing the need for a national standard, I initiated efforts for federal legislation and regulation. After testifying before the FDA and advocating for a standardized reporting system for all U.S. women, the federal breast density notification rule finally went into effect this month.
While I am grateful for this achievement that will save lives, it is bittersweet knowing that many women who fought for similar legislation in their states are no longer with us. Despite the challenges, I remain hopeful that this progress will make a significant impact in early cancer detection for women with dense breasts.
