Breast cancer screening challenges in women with breast augmentation: Evidence from a comprehensive health checkup program

Abstract

Breast augmentation may compromise the accuracy of breast cancer screening and mammography in particular. The aim of this study was to assess its impact on screening practices and the need for diagnostic follow-up. Data from 1,596 women undergoing comprehensive health checkups in 2024 were retrospectively analyzed. Among 912 women screened for breast cancer, 853 underwent both a mammography and ultrasound, while 54 underwent ultrasound only. Additional evaluation was required in 41/853 (4.8%) of the combined screening group compared to 1/54 (1.9%) of the ultrasound-only group. Breast augmentation was identified in 13/912 (1.43%) using extended detection, and 13/912 (1.43%) in the dedicated field. These findings highlight the limitations of mammography in augmented breasts. Breast augmentation influences screening choices and may hinder cancer detection. Alternative modalities, such as diffusion-weighted whole-body imaging with background body signal suppression (DWIBS) MRI or low-compression 3D mammography, should be considered to improve detection accuracy and patient outcomes.