Episode Description
Dr. Rachel Brem discovered her own breast cancer at just 37 while testing ultrasound equipment. That life-changing moment strengthened her mission to help women understand their risks, detect cancer earlier, and advocate for the care they deserve.
In this episode of Building the Noise, Matt Toresco speaks with Dr. Rachel Brem, breast imaging expert, breast cancer survivor, co-founder, and chief medical officer of the Brem Foundation to Defeat Breast Cancer.
Dr. Brem explains why breast cancer screening can no longer follow a one-size-fits-all approach. She discusses when women should begin talking with their doctors about mammograms, why dense breast tissue may require additional screening, and how family history, genetics, and lifetime risk can influence an individual screening plan.
The conversation also explores barriers that prevent women from receiving excellent care. Dr. Brem shares how initiatives such as Wheels for Women and the B Fund help underserved women access screening and diagnostic services. She also discusses how ultrasound, MRI, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies could help identify breast cancer earlier.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why breast cancer screening should be based on individual risk
- When to discuss mammograms and earlier screening with your physician
- Why women with dense breasts may need ultrasound or MRI
- How genetics and family history can affect breast cancer risk
- Why access to excellent care, not simply access to care matters
- How transportation, insurance, and economic barriers can delay detection
- How AI is changing breast imaging and early detection
- Why speaking up and seeking a second opinion can make a difference
Early detection can dramatically improve breast cancer outcomes, but too many women still face confusing recommendations, limited access, insurance denials, or symptoms that are dismissed.
Dr. Brem’s message is clear: listen to your body, understand your risk, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself.
Learn more about breast cancer screening, the Checkmate risk assessment, Wheels for Women, the B Fund, and other resources at:
https://www.bremfoundation.org/
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This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Speak with a qualified healthcare professional about your individual risk and screening needs.
#BreastCancer #BreastCancerScreening #EarlyDetection #WomensHealth #PatientAdvocacy #BuildingTheNoise
Building the Noise with Matt Toresco