Some Nevada lawmakers say doctors should tell women with dense breast tissue that mammogram results are inconclusive, but some doctors say there’s no need.
Democratic Assemblyman James Ohrenschall of Las Vegas is behind Assembly Bill 147. It requires doctors to include a statement about a patient’s breast density and the possibility of undetected tumors.
Ohrenschall says masses in non-dense breasts are easily discernible, but are more difficult to identify in dense breasts.
He adds without further testing, patients could leave the doctor’s office believing everything is fine only to discover advanced-stage cancer later on when fewer treatment options are available.
Opponents contend having the word cancer on the same page as a patient’s name can cause undue worry.
The bill passed the Assembly and is awaiting a Senate vote.
