A 2-measure Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) breast density model may improve risk classification, according to a study of 722,654 women ages 35 to 47.

Investigators developed a risk-prediction model that combines age, race/ethnicity, family history of breast cancer, history of breast biopsy, and 1or 2 density measures, and found the discriminatory accuracy of the 2-measure model was similar, although slightly better, than the 1-measure model.

However, the 2-measure model showed a clinically significant increase in 5-year risk in women whose breast density decreased from heterogeneously or extremely dense to a lower category with 1 additional risk factor.

Citation: Kerlikowske K, Gard CC, Sprague BL, Tice JA, Miglioretti DL. One vs. two breast density measures to predict 5- and 10- year breast cancer risk. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2015. pii: cebp.0035.2015.