Diagnosing Breast Cancer: Improving Policy and Practice

In the early detection of benign breast conditions and malignant breast disease, mammography
is regarded as the gold standard of screening methods. However, the efficacy of the method
depends on the production of high-quality mammography images. After identifying inadequate
breast compression and a lack of standardised positioning technique, the University of Salford
Medical Imaging Research Group (MIRG) subsequently developed and published new
standards, which are now embedded within United Kingdom (UK) breast services for
approximately 2,000,000 women per annum. This has had a positive effect on clients’
experiences, with a reduction in pain levels during mammography and improvements in
detecting benign and malignant disease. The research has also led providers outside of the UK
(Norway, Netherlands) to update their practice and policy, resulting in standardisation of
approach and improved client experiences for another 500,000 women. Additionally, Volpara
Health Technologies (New Zealand) has developed a commercial application from MIRG
research that improves practice: this software is sold in 38 countries, improving the experience
and outcome for 10,000,000 women globally.

This case study was submitted to REF 2021. For more information and to download the full case study, click here. Additionally, you can also watch this video to learn more.