(March 29, 2007) Certain women with an especially high risk of developing breast cancer should get magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans along with their yearly mammogram, according to a new American Cancer Society guideline.

A March 28 Star Tribune article, "Expanded use of MRIs for breast cancer urged," interviewed Cancer Center Director and breast cancer specialist Douglas Yee, M.D., about the new guideline. Yee said the University uses the tests frequently, and that every woman who has had breast cancer diagnosed gets an MRI.

Michael Garwood, Ph.D.

University researches use of MRI with MRS

Members of the Breast Cancer Research Program at the Masonic Cancer Center are studying alternatives to the mammography/biopsy approach to breast cancer detection. Michael Garwood, Ph.D., of the University's Center for Magnetic Resonance Research (CMRR) is leading an effort to improve breast cancer screening and diagnosis by developing breast magnetic resonance imaging by incorporating magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) techniques. Visit the CMRR Web site for more information.