New Publication: Risk factors for interval breast cancer: insights from a decade of a mammography screening program

We are thrilled to announce that our latest research on risk factors for interval breast cancer (IBC) has been published in Breast Cancer Research and Treatment. This study provides important insights into the characteristics and risk factors associated with IBC and underscores the need for advancements in breast cancer screening strategies.

Key Findings

Our study analyzed data from a Swiss mammography screening program and revealed several critical insights:

• Women diagnosed with interval breast cancer (IBC) tend to have higher tumor stages and more aggressive tumor biology compared to those diagnosed through routine screening (screen-detected breast cancer, SBC).
• The 7-year survival rate for IBC patients (92.9%) is significantly lower than for SBC patients (96.4%).
• Higher breast density (BI-RADS c & d), age (55-59 years), and a family history of breast cancer were identified as significant risk factors for developing IBC.
• The majority of IBC cases (63%) were diagnosed 13-24 months after a normal mammography screening

Why These Findings Matter

These results highlight the importance of enhancing mammography screening programs potentially with a more personalized approach. Women with high-risk factors may benefit from:

• Additional imaging methods such as MRI or contrast-enhanced mammography.
• Shorter screening intervals, particularly for those with high breast density or a family history of breast cancer.
• Improved risk stratification for more precise and effective early detection.

By adapting screening methods to individual risk profiles, early detection might be improved, reduce the incidence of interval breast cancer, and ultimately enhance survival rates.

Acknowledgment and Collaboration

This research was made possible through the great collaboration with Krebsliga Eastern Switzerland. Their continuous efforts in cancer prevention and research have been instrumental and we deeply appreciate their support in making this study a reality.

What’s Next?

Our research does not stop here! We are actively investigating how artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance breast cancer screening and potentially reduce the rate of interval breast cancer cases. AI-driven imaging analysis and risk prediction models could improve screening precision and efficiency, making early detection even more effective. We are excited to present findings around this novel topic at the European Congress of Radiology and the St. Gallen International Breast Cancer Conference. These key events provide a great platform to discuss the latest advancements in breast cancer detection and collaborate with leading experts in the field.

Read the Full Study

To explore our research in detail, you can read the full study here: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10549-025-07619-4

We are committed to continuing our research to further refine breast cancer screening practices and contribute to improving early detection and survival rates for women worldwide. If you are interested in our work or want to collaborate on future projects, please feel free to reach out!