High-Risk Breast Cancer Patients Skip MRIs

A large number of women at high risk for breast cancer are choosing not to get important screenings, and it has nothing to do with a government advisory panel.

More than 40 percent of women eligible to get MRI breast cancer screenings because of their genetic background chose not to in a recent study even though the exams were offered for free. The findings will be published in the January issue of Radiology.

The No. 1 reason for skipping the exam is claustrophobia. Those ominous-looking machines made by General Electric Co., Siemens AG, and other manufacturers apparently scare people off. An intravenous contrasting agent to help doctors read the medical imaging also is cited as a cause for women deciding not get an MRI.

The American Cancer Society says some women with a high risk of developing breast cancer should undergo MRI screenings in addition to annual mammograms beginning at 30.

Researcher Wendie A. Berg, a Johns Hopkins breast-imaging specialist, says doctors should consider using ultrasound when MRI isn't an option for high-risk women.