Indiana updates breast density bill to clarify language

Indiana Governor Mike Pence has signed an amendment to the state’s 2013 breast density bill, removing language that had led some to believe breast tissue disclosure was only required for women who needed follow-up care. With the amendment officially signed, Indiana became the 25th state to enact a mandatory breast density reporting bill.

“This is an important day for women’s breast health,” Nancy M. Cappello, PhD, founder and director of Are You Dense, Inc., and Are You Dense Advocacy, Inc., said in a prepared statement. “After years in the works, women of Indiana at last have access to important, life-saving information, information that enables patients to discuss the masking and causal risks of dense breast tissue, along with other risks, with her health care providers. The intent of the legislation is to further this important dialogue.”

The updated bill goes into effect on July 1.