Now Effective: New Law Will Help Combat Breast Cancer

Andrew J Lanza

January 24, 2013

Effective January 19th, a new state law that I supported will enhance the fight against breast cancer.

The new law requires that all mammography reports provided by doctors must now include a notification to patients when it is determined that they have dense breast tissue.  Patients also must be informed about the importance of discussing additional screening options with their doctor.

Research shows that dense breast tissue can make it more difficult to find cancer on a mammogram and may be associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.  But according to a recent poll, 95% of women are unaware of their own breast density. 

This new law will help to ensure that women throughout New York have access to the important medical information they need to make smart decisions about their own health care.