Questions & Answers About Breast MRI As a result of the new recommendations by the American Cancer Society and the recent study in the New England Journal of Medicine, many women who are either at high risk or have been diagnosed with breast cancer would like to know more about breast MRI. Here are answers to some of their most frequently asked questions. What is an MRI? Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, is a specialized imaging technique that is helpful in diagnosing different types of health problems, including breast cancer. It is considered a very safe imaging procedure because it does not employ any harmful radiation. Who should get a breast MRI? Those who have a BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutation. Those women with a first-degree relative who has a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation. Those who have received radiation to the chest between the ages of 10 and 30 or who have been treated for Hodgkin's disease. Women who have a 20%-25% lifetime risk of breast cancer, based on factors such as a family history of the disease. Women with a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer. Are mammograms necessary? Mammograms still play a very important role in screening women for breast cancer.  For high-risk patients, the combination of yearly mammography and MRI examinations should begin at age 30 and is preferred over either test alone. Women at average risk for breast cancer should have annual mammograms and breast exams starting at age 40. How can I schedule a breast MRI scan? You should first discuss this test and your concerns with your personal physician. If it is decided that it would be in your best interests to have an MRI, then your physician will refer you for the exam. Why should I choose ProScan Imaging for my breast MRI? ProScan Imaging is one of the leaders in providing MRI services in the United States. It has unparalleled experience and expertise in performing and interpreting breast MRIs.  ProScan Imaging has state-of-the art MRI imaging equipment, and its friendly, experienced staff will provide you with the best possible care. The staff at ProScan will be happy to discuss any questions that you may have regarding your breast MRI exam. ______________________________________________ CALCULATE YOUR RISK OF BREAST CANCER Here’s an interactive Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool, provided by the federal government’s National Cancer Institute: www.cancer.gov/bcrisktool/ ______________________________________________ Links to Recent News and Studies Diagnostic Imaging article, August 21, 2007 New England Journal of Medicine article, March 29, 2007 American Cancer Society press release, March 28, 2007 New York Times story, March 28, 2007 MSNBC segment on breast MRI, March 28, 2007 Studies: Screening MRI results in the detection of mammographically and clinically occult disease in women at high risk for breast cancer.... Breast MRI screening can be cost effective in high-risk women who carry BRCA1/2 genetic mutations....