Reply to the Letter to the Editor: Radiation exposure and screening yield by digital breast tomosynthesis compared to mammography—results of the TOSYMA trial breast density related - Summary - MDSpire

Reply to the Letter to the Editor: Radiation exposure and screening yield by digital breast tomosynthesis compared to mammography—results of the TOSYMA trial breast density related

  • By

  • Alexander Sommer

  • Stefanie Weigel

  • Hans-Werner Hense

  • Elke Nekolla

  • Veronika Weyer-Elberich

  • Walter Heindel

  • August 19, 2025

  • 0 min

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Objective:

To address concerns regarding radiation exposure and screening yield in the context of the TOSYMA trial, particularly in relation to the precautionary principle and its implications.

Key Findings:
  • Higher breast doses with DBT + SM compared to DM may be offset by improved cancer detection.
  • Economic evaluations, particularly considering AI's role, are essential for future public health implications.
  • The study's design supports generalizability across different mammography devices.
Interpretation:

The findings suggest that while radiation exposure is a concern, the potential benefits of improved cancer detection with DBT + SM warrant further investigation into risk-adapted screening strategies, balancing risks and benefits.

Limitations:
  • The study did not conduct a detailed quantitative risk analysis, which may limit understanding of long-term implications.
  • Evaluation of hard endpoints is beyond the current trial's scope.
Conclusion:

Future research should prioritize innovative technologies and risk-adapted screening strategies, with preliminary evaluations already influencing national screening programs in Germany.

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