The current population screening programme for women between the ages of 50 and 75 consists of a biannual mammogram, which is an X-ray of the breast. This method has proven less reliable for women with very dense breast tissue, as this makes tumours more difficult to spot. A scientific study (the DENSE-1 study) has revealed that an MRI scan may be a good alternative for this group. 

Whether to add the MRI scan to the population screening programme or not is a matter that requires careful consideration. For instance, it is important to ensure that sufficient staff and equipment remain available for other medical examinations that require an MRI scan. According to RIVM, an MRI scan can provisionally be added to the National Programme for Breast Cancer Screening. RIVM’s advice is that the additional scans be organised and funded as part of the population screening programme. It also recommends that the MRI scans be carried out in hospitals and independent treatment centres, with coordination and quality assurance managed by the population screening programme. This will ensure a uniform method and high level of quality of the population screening programme throughout the Netherlands.  

Several parties were involved in the completion of this feasibility study, including hospitals, independent treatment centres, patient organisations, patients’ associations, physicians, scientists and other stakeholders. The study report is available on the RIVM website as of today and will also be submitted to the House of Representatives. The decision of whether or not to add the MRI scan to the National Programme for Breast Cancer Screening is up to the Minister for Youth, Prevention and Sport.