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Computer-Aided Detection for Breast Imaging Now Available
NEW YORK, September 6, 2001 -- Radiologists at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center are using computer-aided detection (CAD) to second-read mammograms at the Center's Breast Examination Center of Harlem (BECH). The technology uses a computer to scan mammograms for abnormalities and, according to a new study in the September issue of Radiology, may improve early detection of breast cancer with screening mammography by almost 20 percent.
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center acquired the R2 Technology ImageChecker(r) CAD system -- the same system used in the study -- and began using it for mammograms performed at BECH in August, 2001. BECH is an outreach program of Memorial Sloan-Kettering that has provided free cancer screening and educational programs on cancer prevention and detection for women in Harlem since 1979.
"We are encouraged by the growing body of research showing the potential value of CAD as a companion technology to mammography and we look forward to gaining experience with the system," said Michael A. Cohen, MD, director of the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Guttman Diagnostic Center where the mammograms are interpreted. "This technology may improve the proportion of cancers detected at an early stage and hopefully this will encourage more women in the local community to get regular mammograms."
Every mammogram at BECH is first read in the standard fashion by the staff radiologist. Only then is the CAD analysis conducted and reviewed. The radiologist is the decision maker, but the CAD system can improve his or her ability to detect breast cancer by pointing out an area that may have initially been overlooked.
"The best defense woman have against breast cancer is still an annual screening mammogram and with the CAD system, radiologists -- especially those working independently in the community -- now have an extra set of highly trained eyes to help identify abnormalities or signs of cancer," said Dr. Cohen, who is an authority in the field of screening mammography.
Women may schedule an appointment at BECH by calling 212-531-8000. The center is located on the fourth floor of the Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. State Office Building at 163 West 125th Street, Adam Clayton Powell Boulevard (Seventh Avenue.)
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center is the world's oldest and largest institution devoted to prevention, patient care, research and education in cancer. Our scientists and clinicians generate innovative approaches to better understand, diagnose and treat cancer. Our specialists are leaders in biomedical research and in translating the latest research to advance the standard of cancer care worldwide.
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