Breast Cancer: Method of Detection

The initial Method of Detection (MOD) is the first imaging test or sign or symptom that triggered the subsequent workup and diagnosis of breast cancer.

Why should we track initial MOD?

  • Many other nations track the performance and results of screening mammography for every patient.
  • USA cancer registries do not include MOD data or a direct registry link from the MOD to specific patients and their outcomes.
  • Mortality from breast cancer continues to decrease in the USA but the debate over when to start and how often to screen patients rages on in the USA.
  • Without tracking MOD, we cannot fully understand the fundamental impact of screening, or the lack thereof, on treatment and outcomes in diverse racial and socioeconomic communities in the USA.

MOD Resources

How and Why to MOD (initial Method of Detection)
How to Assign MOD in Diagnostic Reports
MOD One Page Quick Reference
MOD: The Missing Piece in U.S. Cancer Registries

Breast Imaging Resources



Breast imagers, use these informative and instructional resources to provide effective, safe, quality care to patients.

Access resources

ACR BI-RADS® Atlas

BIRADS_320

The BI-RADS Atlas provides standardized breast imaging findings terminology, report organization, assessment structure and a classification system for mammography, ultrasound and MRI of the breast.

Access free content