Health

A new study demonstrates that artificial intelligence (AI) can significantly improve the accuracy of digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), commonly known as 3D mammography, in detecting breast cancer without increasing the number of patients called back for additional imaging. This advancement offers a promising step forward in early cancer detection and could lead to more effective treatment outcomes. The findings come as Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) in Boston begins utilizing an AI-driven tool, Clairity Breast, to assess a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer within the next five years.

For decades, screening mammograms have primarily been used to identify existing breast cancer. Now, with the advent of AI technologies like Clairity Breast, these diagnostic tools are evolving into predictive ones. Authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) through the De Novo pathway, Clairity Breast represents a new class of medical technology, allowing healthcare providers to identify women at increased risk years before a traditional diagnosis might occur. This shift in approach could be particularly impactful, as the majority of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no known genetic mutation or family history of the disease.

The recent study, detailed in reports from Radiology Business and AuntMinnie, showed that AI assistance led to a statistically significant increase in cancer detection rates when radiologists reviewed DBT images. Importantly, the study too found that the use of AI did not lead to a higher recall rate – meaning fewer patients were unnecessarily called back for follow-up imaging due to false positives. What we have is a critical factor, as high recall rates can cause anxiety for patients and strain healthcare resources.

Clairity Breast, developed by Clairity Inc., derives its risk score directly and exclusively from a woman’s mammogram. The first clinical patient received a Clairity Breast cancer risk score on February 23, 2026, marking a historic milestone in women’s health. Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey applauded the innovation, stating, “Massachusetts has long been a leader in health care, tech and innovation, and we are committed to advancing solutions that improve people’s health and save lives. It’s great to see Clairity, a Boston-based company, using AI to facilitate more women understand their risk of breast cancer earlier.”

How Clairity Breast Works

The Clairity Breast platform analyzes mammogram images using sophisticated algorithms to identify subtle patterns and features that may indicate an increased risk of developing breast cancer. This analysis goes beyond what the human eye can typically detect, providing a more comprehensive assessment of risk. The FDA authorized the technology in 2025, recognizing its potential to improve breast cancer screening and early detection.

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center’s adoption of Clairity Breast builds on a growing trend of integrating AI into medical imaging. The hospital is part of Beth Israel Lahey Health, a healthcare system dedicated to expanding access to quality care and advancing medical science. The implementation of this technology is expected to enhance the capabilities of radiologists and improve patient outcomes.

Beyond Mammography: A New Era of Risk Assessment

Traditionally, breast cancer risk assessment has relied heavily on factors like family history and genetic testing. While these remain important considerations, they don’t capture the full picture. Clairity Breast offers a complementary approach, providing a personalized risk assessment based on an individual’s unique mammographic features. This is particularly valuable for women who may not have a strong family history or known genetic predisposition to the disease.

The development of Clairity Breast and its implementation at BIDMC represent a significant step toward more proactive and personalized breast cancer screening. As AI technology continues to evolve, it is likely to play an increasingly important role in early detection and prevention efforts. The ability to identify women at higher risk before cancer develops could lead to more targeted screening strategies and potentially reduce the burden of this disease.

Looking ahead, further research will be crucial to refine AI algorithms and validate their effectiveness across diverse populations. Continued collaboration between clinicians, researchers, and technology developers will be essential to unlock the full potential of AI in breast cancer care. The ongoing evaluation of Clairity Breast’s impact on patient outcomes will provide valuable insights into the future of breast cancer screening.

This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

Have you discussed breast cancer screening options with your doctor? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Dallas and Washington D.C. – In a significant advancement for the diagnosis and treatment of acute pulmonary embolism (PE), the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC) have jointly released the first clinical practice guideline dedicated to this potentially life-threatening condition. Published February 19, 2026, in Circulation and JACC, the guideline introduces a new system for categorizing the severity of acute PE, aiming to improve patient outcomes through more targeted treatment strategies.

Pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot, typically originating in a deep vein in the leg or pelvis, travels to the lungs and blocks an artery. This condition, part of a broader category known as venous thromboembolism (VTE), can range from mild symptoms to sudden death. The new guidelines address a critical need for standardized evaluation and management protocols, recognizing that effective care requires a multidisciplinary approach across emergency departments, inpatient settings, and outpatient clinics.

New Clinical Categories for Assessing PE Severity

Central to the updated recommendations is the implementation of five “Acute PE Clinical Categories” (A-E), each with subcategories, designed to define the severity of the embolism and guide therapeutic decisions. This new classification system is intended to enhance the precision of prognosis assessment and improve the accuracy of risk stratification. According to the guideline, individuals categorized as A (subclinical) may be safely discharged home from the emergency room without hospitalization, while those in Category B (symptomatic/low clinical severity) are generally suitable for early discharge.

However, patients exhibiting more severe symptoms – those falling into Categories C-E – should be hospitalized to optimize treatment. These strategies may include anticoagulation therapy, or more advanced interventions such as systemic thrombolysis, catheter-based thrombolysis, mechanical thrombectomy, or even surgical embolectomy, depending on the specific category and the patient’s overall risk profile.

Identifying Risk Factors and Improving Diagnostic Strategies

The guideline also details several risk factors for acute PE, including recent surgery or hospitalization, trauma, prolonged immobility, pregnancy, obesity, cancer, and pre-existing blood clotting disorders. Comprehensive recommendations are provided for diagnostic strategies, aiming to facilitate prompt and accurate identification of the condition. Early detection and prompt treatment are critical, as highlighted by the AHA and ACC.

For patients eligible for oral anticoagulation, direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are recommended over vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) to prevent recurrent VTE and reduce the risk of major bleeding, unless contraindicated. This recommendation reflects the growing body of evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of DOACs in the management of VTE.

Guidance on Follow-Up Care and Long-Term Management

Beyond acute treatment, the guideline provides guidance on follow-up care, including safe resumption of physical activity, travel considerations, and the long-term use of anti-clotting medications. This holistic approach emphasizes the importance of ongoing monitoring and support to prevent recurrence and improve the quality of life for individuals who have experienced a PE.

The development of this guideline involved collaboration with eight additional societies, underscoring the broad consensus on the need for standardized approaches to PE management. The guideline recognizes that managing patients with acute PE “is uniquely multidisciplinary and crosses emergency department, inpatient settings and outpatient clinics.”

Looking ahead, the implementation of these new guidelines is expected to lead to more consistent and effective care for patients with acute pulmonary embolism. Further research will be crucial to refine the clinical categories and optimize treatment strategies based on evolving evidence.

Have you or a loved one been affected by pulmonary embolism? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Please also share this article with anyone who might uncover this information helpful.

Disclaimer: This article provides informational content and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.

For decades, oats have been lauded as a cornerstone of a healthy diet, a go-to choice for those seeking mindful nutrition. However, a recent wave of scrutiny has emerged, leading some to question the long-held benefits of this humble grain. What was once considered a nutritional powerhouse is now facing a degree of skepticism, prompting a closer look at the science behind the oat’s reputation.

Oats are a significant source of energy globally, providing approximately 45 percent of the world’s dietary energy intake. While rice, corn, and wheat are the most widely consumed grains, wheat stands out for its superior nutritional profile. In Germany, oats, particularly in the form of bread, are a crucial source of dietary fiber. However, it’s important to acknowledge that certain medical conditions, such as celiac disease, wheat allergy, wheat-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis, and non-celiac gluten sensitivity, necessitate avoiding wheat and related grains like spelt, einkorn, and emmer.

The debate surrounding oats isn’t new, but it’s gaining traction as dietary trends evolve and more research emerges. The core of the discussion revolves around how modern oat varieties and processing methods impact their nutritional value and potential effects on the body. Understanding the nuances of oat consumption requires a careful examination of both the benefits and potential drawbacks.

The Nutritional Profile of Oats

Oats are a complex carbohydrate, providing a sustained release of energy. They are also a good source of fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which has been linked to several health benefits, including improved cholesterol levels and blood sugar control. According to the German Nutrition Society (DGE), grains and potatoes form the foundation of a healthy and sustainable diet, with whole-grain options being the most beneficial. Whole oats, including the bran and germ, retain the highest concentration of nutrients, such as B vitamins, iron, zinc, magnesium, and antioxidants.

The DGE emphasizes the importance of choosing whole-grain varieties like whole-grain flour, whole-grain bread, whole-grain pasta, and natural rice whenever possible. Compared to refined grains, where the bran and germ are removed, whole grains offer a significantly richer nutritional profile. However, even certain processed oat products can be beneficial if they maintain a high nutrient density.

Addressing the Concerns

The recent questioning of oats’ health benefits stems from a variety of factors. Some concerns relate to the potential for contamination with gluten, even in certified gluten-free oats, which can be problematic for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Others focus on the phytic acid content in oats, which can inhibit the absorption of certain minerals. However, soaking, sprouting, or fermenting oats can reduce phytic acid levels and improve mineral bioavailability.

the way oats are processed can impact their nutritional value. Highly processed oat products, such as instant oatmeal with added sugars and artificial flavors, offer fewer health benefits than minimally processed options like steel-cut oats or rolled oats. It’s crucial to read food labels carefully and choose products with minimal added ingredients.

The Role of Oats in a Balanced Diet

Despite the recent scrutiny, oats can still play a valuable role in a balanced diet for many individuals. A short-term oat-based diet has even been shown to lower cholesterol levels. The key is to prioritize whole, minimally processed oats and consume them as part of a varied and nutrient-rich eating plan.

If you are new to incorporating oats into your diet, it’s advisable to increase your intake gradually to allow your digestive system to adjust. Drinking plenty of water – at least 1.5 liters daily – can also aid digestion and support your body process the increased fiber intake.

The ongoing discussion surrounding oats highlights the importance of critical thinking when it comes to nutrition. What constitutes a “healthy” diet is not one-size-fits-all, and individual needs and sensitivities should always be taken into consideration.

As research continues to evolve, our understanding of the optimal way to incorporate oats into a healthy lifestyle will undoubtedly become more refined. Staying informed about the latest scientific findings and making mindful food choices are essential for maximizing the benefits of this versatile grain.

Disclaimer: This article provides informational content and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance on dietary choices and health concerns.

What are your thoughts on the evolving understanding of oat nutrition? Share your experiences and questions in the comments below!