THE ROLE OF ULTRASOUND IN BREAST CANCER SCREENING

1. **Introduction** – Overview of the significance of breast cancer and the critical need for effective screening methods. 2. **Historical Analysis of Breast Cancer Screening** – Evolution of breast cancer screening practices. – Introduction to Wilson and Jungner’s principles for screening, including criteria such as the condition’s importance, the availability of a suitable test, and the effectiveness of early treatment. 3. **Basic Concepts Involved in Breast Cancer Screening** – Definition and purpose of breast cancer screening. – Description of different screening modalities: mammography, ultrasound, MRI. – Criteria for effective screening tests: sensitivity, specificity, accessibility, cost-effectiveness. 4. **Main Screening Guidelines for Breast Cancer Worldwide (5 Continents)** – Summary of breast cancer screening guidelines from North America, South America (BRAZIL) , Europe, Asia, and Africa. – Comparison of recommendations on age to start screening, screening intervals, and preferred screening modalities. 5. **Historical Analysis of the Evolution of Breast Ultrasonography** – Development of breast ultrasonography from its inception to present-day practices. – Milestones in technological advancements and their impact on diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes. 6. **Breast Ultrasonography and Cancer Screening** – Role of ultrasound in breast cancer screening, particularly in women with dense breast tissue. – Evidence supporting the use of ultrasound as an adjunct to mammography. – Case studies and clinical trials demonstrating the effectiveness of supplementary screening with ultrasound. 7. **American Laws on Dense Breasts** – Overview of legislation in the USA regarding breast density notification. – Implications for screening practices and patient management. – Analysis of the effectiveness of these laws in improving breast cancer detection rates. 8. **Technological Advances in Breast Ultrasonography** – Recent technological advancements: high-frequency transducers, 3D ultrasound, and elastography. – Impact of automated breast ultrasonography (ABUS) on screening efficiency and diagnostic accuracy. – Integration of artificial intelligence in image analysis, enhancing diagnostic capabilities and reducing false positives. 9. **The Use of BI-RADS in Ultrasound Reporting** – Detailed explanation of the Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS). – How BI-RADS standardizes reporting and improves communication among healthcare providers. – Significance of BI-RADS in guiding clinical management and treatment decisions. 10. **Work Routine of Ultrasound Technicians in the USA** – Description of the typical daily practices and responsibilities of ultrasound technicians. – Training requirements, certification processes, and continuing education. – Challenges faced by technicians, including workload and technological demands. 11. **Work Routine of Radiologists in Leading Countries** – Comparative analysis of the work routines of radiologists in the USA, Canada, England, Sweden, Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Portugal, New Zealand, Australia, China, Japan, Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay. – Differences in training, certification, and clinical practices. – Impact of national screening programs and healthcare policies on the radiologists’ roles and responsibilities. 12. **Conclusion** – Summary of key findings from the literature review. – The future of breast ultrasonography in breast cancer screening. – Recommendations for practice and areas for further research.