LYNNWOOD, WA, October 7, 2024— As we begin this year’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Volpara Health, a Lunit company and a global leader in software for the early detection of cancer, publicly reaffirms its support for the bipartisan “Find It Early Act” (H.R. 3086/S.5141). Congresswoman DeLauro (D-CT) and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) introduced the bill in May 2023. On September 9, 2024, Volpara and other patient advocates, clinicians, and nonprofits lobbied the Senate to introduce a bipartisan companion bill so both Houses of Congress could consider this life-saving legislation.

As a result, Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Roger Marshall (R-KS) introduced the Senate version of the bill (S. 5141) on September 23. Building on the recent federal breast density notification mandate, the Find It Early Act removes financial barriers to women accessing lifesaving screenings beyond mammograms for higher-risk women, especially those with dense breast tissue. Specifically, the bill requires commercial and public insurers (VA, Medicare, and TRICARE) to cover essential imaging such as ultrasound and MRI—without out-of-pocket costs.

“This bill represents a crucial step forward in breast cancer care,” said Teri Thomas, CEO of Volpara Health. “By removing financial barriers, we ensure that all women receive the life-saving screenings they need, improving early detection and saving lives. Volpara Health is proud to lead this effort, working closely with lawmakers and healthcare organizations.”
Dense breast tissue can reduce mammography detection rates to just 56%, compared to 85% for women without dense breasts. However, combining mammograms with other forms of imaging like ultrasound or MRI increases detection rates to 88% or higher. The Find It Early Act guarantees all women can access these advanced screening options.

“The federal breast density notification law is a major milestone but solves only half the problem. Without insurance coverage, women will be left with information but no option to take action and find earlier, more curable breast cancer. Access to additional screenings is essential,” added Thomas. “Volpara’s AI-driven tools like Volpara True Density® are widely used by radiologists to objectively and accurately assess breast density, but without the Find It Early Act, many women may still face financial barriers to these needed screenings.”

The economic impact of delayed cancer detection is significant. Studies show that treating advanced breast cancer can cost up to $250,000 per patient, with additional costs from lost productivity and heavy emotional tolls on the whole family. These costs far exceed the cost of additional imaging. Early detection, through personalized screening approaches, not only saves lives but also reduces long-term financial burdens on families and the healthcare system.

US Press Room Homepage