Anthony Bill to Improve Breast Cancer Detection Standards in Michigan Voted Out of Committee 

Legislation introduced during Breast Cancer Awareness Month aims to improve mammogram reporting standards and increase early detection 

LANSING, Mich. (Oct. 30, 2024) — Too many families in Michigan and across the country know the pain of losing a loved one to breast cancer — whether it’s a mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, or friend. Breast cancer remains one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in women, second only to skin cancers, accounting for one in three of all new female cancer cases in the U.S. each year.

While improved death rates from breast cancer have been linked to earlier detection through screening and increased awareness, in Michigan alone, recent data estimates that as of 2022, 22.3% of women between the ages of 50-74 did not receive a mammogram in the previous two years. As the second leading cause of cancer-related death for women in the U.S., ongoing efforts to raise awareness and encourage regular screenings for breast cancer are direly needed.

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the immense benefits of early detection, Sen. Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing) introduced Senate Bill 1042 earlier this month to improve the quality of information and the way in which it is provided to women following their mammograms. The bill, which was successfully voted out of committee today, will align Michigan’s standards for breast density notification with federal guidelines, ensuring that women receive clear, consistent information about their breast tissue.

“Breast cancer can be a devastating diagnosis, but we know that early detection is key to saving lives,” said Sen. Anthony. “Mammograms are the best tool we have for early detection, and it’s critical that women fully understand the health of their breast tissue following these screenings. With my bill, we are taking a major step to ensure that all women in Michigan are better informed about their breast density, which can impact cancer detection and outcomes.”

Breast density is a significant factor in breast cancer screenings. Women with dense breast tissue may be at higher risk for breast cancer, and mammograms can be less effective at detecting abnormalities in dense breasts. By receiving clear information about breast density, women and their healthcare providers can make more informed decisions about their health and any necessary follow-up screenings.

Senate Bill 1042, which will now return to the Senate Floor for further consideration, is part of a comprehensive effort by the Michigan Senate Democrats to promote women’s health, bodily autonomy and reproductive rights.   

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