COLUMBIA, Md. — A national survey released by MedStar Health reveals significant gaps in women’s knowledge of advanced mammography technologies, with nearly half of eligible U.S. women over age 40 not getting annual screenings and more than one in 10 never having had one. The findings, announced October 8, 2025, highlight unawareness of tools like artificial intelligence, genetic testing, and 3D mammography that have improved accuracy and reduced inconveniences over the past 20 years.
The survey shows only a third of respondents know AI assists radiologists in reading mammograms, offering benefits such as more accurate and faster results, fewer false positives, higher diagnostic confidence, and reduced callbacks for extra imaging. Four in 10 women are unaware of these advantages, including how AI can prevent repeat visits. Despite this, over 60 percent feel comfortable with AI aiding their screenings. One in 10 patients typically face callbacks, which the survey indicates cause anxiety for 66 percent and fear for 46 percent of women.
“Women, especially those with dense breasts, know there is a chance they’ll get a call after their mammogram to come back for additional imaging,” said Brooke Wolvin, MD, diagnostic radiologist with MedStar Health. “AI gives us a second set of eyes to confirm accurate results faster, and we oftentimes don’t need the patient to return at all.”
“AI-assisted screening is a win-win for women,” said Jennifer Flaim, MD, diagnostic radiologist with MedStar Health. “We know that fear and anxiety can keep an eligible patient from getting regular mammograms, but advancements in the field are making the process easier and saving lives.”
The survey also assessed awareness of breast cancer risk factors. Most respondents identified family history, age, and smoking, but fewer than half recognized others like dense breasts, menopause after age 55, certain oral contraceptives, starting menstruation before age 12, or having a first child after age 30. Only 9 percent correctly identified all factors.
“Fewer than one in ten women knowing the breast cancer risk factors is particularly concerning because many women may be at higher risk and not know it,” Dr. Wolvin said. “That’s why it’s so important to work with your primary care provider to understand your own personal risk level and make sure you are getting regular breast cancer screenings as soon as possible.”
Dr. Wolvin recommends high-risk women visit specialized clinics for assessments on more frequent screenings or alternative methods like ultrasound or MRI. MedStar Health offers a free online breast cancer risk assessment at https://medstarhealth.org/breasthra to help evaluate personal risks.
Studies support AI’s role in enhancing mammography. A March 2025 analysis in Nature Communications found AI improves accuracy in single-read settings, potentially reducing workloads while maintaining detection rates. Research published in May 2025 in Clinical Breast Cancer showed AI aids interpretation, leading to better outcomes in community practices. An October 2024 RSNA report noted AI boosts cancer detection and cuts false positives. Additional evidence from NCBI indicates AI increases sensitivity in dense breasts, raises detection rates, and minimizes unnecessary biopsies. A Washington University study in April 2024 simulated AI reducing follow-up tests without missing cancers. January 2025 Nature Medicine research on nationwide implementation confirmed AI’s potential to elevate ductal carcinoma in situ detection. iCAD’s ProFound AI, used in some systems, has proven to enhance screening and cut recalls.
In Maryland, breast cancer incidence stands at 135.5 new cases per 100,000 women annually, above the national average of 129.8, per state profiles. Nationally, 2025 estimates project 316,950 new invasive cases in women and 2,800 in men, with 42,170 female deaths, according to the American Cancer Society. Susan G. Komen reports similar figures, adding 59,080 ductal carcinoma in situ cases. Five-year survival is 91 percent, dropping to 81 percent at 15 years. Maryland’s portal tracks common cancers, noting breast cancer queries frequently.
MedStar Health provides services across Maryland, including in southern regions. The Breast Health Program at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital in Leonardtown offers routine mammograms, diagnostics, and treatments at 40900 Merchants Lane, Suite 102. In Clinton, the Breast Health Program at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center at 7501 Surratts Road, Suite 305, includes 3D mammography and biopsies. Recognized as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence, it provides prevention, genetic testing, and evaluations. Radiology at Southern Maryland focuses on breast imaging with 3D options. High-risk programs assess needs for advanced imaging.
MedStar’s online risk assessment predicts based on user input, suggesting provider consultations. Genetic counseling identifies mutations like BRCA, informing prevention. Facilities hold ACR accreditation, ensuring quality.
Breast cancer screening guidelines recommend annual biennial mammograms starting at age 40 for average-risk women, per U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. For high-risk, earlier or additional modalities apply. Advances like tomosynthesis provide detailed 3D images, improving detection in dense tissue. Genetic testing targets hereditary risks, with about 5 to 10 percent of cases linked to mutations.
The survey underscores education’s role in boosting screening rates. By addressing misconceptions, providers aim to encourage timely checks, potentially lowering mortality through early intervention. Women should discuss personal risks with clinicians to tailor plans.
