R.I., Minn. become latest states with breast density notification law

Evan Godt | | Health Imaging | Screening

Both Rhode Island and Minnesota have enacted breast density notification laws, bringing the total number of states with such laws to 17.

Similar to legislation established in the other states, the laws in Rhode Island and Minnesota would compel mammography providers to inform patients if they have dense breast tissue and educate them on the associated risks and screening challenges. Mammography is limited in women with dense breasts, and advocates of notification laws argue women should be made aware so they can discuss supplemental breast cancer screening options with their doctors if appropriate.

The Minnesota law takes effect August 1, while the Rhode Island law will become effective October 1.

Evan Godt
Evan Godt, Writer

Evan joined TriMed in 2011, writing primarily for Health Imaging. Prior to diving into medical journalism, Evan worked for the Nine Network of Public Media in St. Louis. He also has worked in public relations and education. Evan studied journalism at the University of Missouri, with an emphasis on broadcast media.

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