FAST MRI: DYAMOND
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Diagnostic yield study to determine whether an abbreviated form of breast magnetic resonance imaging (FAST MRI) can detect breast cancers missed by screening mammography: for women at population risk of breast cancer with average mammographic density following their initial screening mammogram
IRAS ID
330059
Contact name
Lyn Jones
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
North Bristol NHS Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 5 months, 31 days
Research summary
Finding breast cancers early saves lives.
The NHS Breast Screening Programme uses either mammograms (quick x-rays) or MRI scans to help find breast cancers. Mammograms are used most widely as they can be done quickly, but small cancers can sometimes be hidden by breast tissue. MRIs are better at detecting these small cancers, but they are expensive, so are only offered to people at highest risk of developing breast cancer.
A newer type of scan is the “FAST” MRI. They are quick like mammograms and may be better at detecting small cancers like MRI.
The DYAMOND study will test if a FAST MRI scan can detect cancers not seen on mammogram, in women with average density breasts.
1000 women will be invited for a FAST MRI if:
- they are aged 50-52,
- their mammogram is clear
- their breast density is “average” (a computer measures this from mammogram images)The FAST MRI scans will be checked by trained health professionals. If any cancers are found, the women will be looked after by their local hospital, and information about their care will be collected for the DYAMOND study.
We will ask women what they thought about having the FAST MRI scan to see how acceptable it is to them.
If this study shows that cancers missed on a mammogram can be seen on a FAST MRI for women with average density breasts, we will carry out a larger study to see if FAST MRI may be a good alternative to mammograms for breast screening. We will share the findings with the public, health professionals and other researchers.
We are working with breast cancer support groups and women with experience of breast cancer and breast screening to make sure the patient voice is listened to throughout this study.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Sheffield Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
23/YH/0268
Date of REC Opinion
9 Jan 2024
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion