Improving breast cancer risk assessment for Black women

Advancing breast cancer risk assessment for Black women

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-10981894

This study is working to improve how we predict breast cancer risk for Black women by using advanced technology to find specific patterns in mammograms, so we can create better screening and prevention strategies just for them.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10981894 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the accuracy of breast cancer risk assessments specifically for Black women, who face higher mortality rates from the disease. By utilizing advanced artificial intelligence techniques, particularly deep learning, the study aims to identify unique mammographic signatures that predict breast cancer risk. The research will analyze a large dataset of screening information from Black women to develop tailored screening and prevention strategies. This approach seeks to address the limitations of existing models that predominantly reflect White populations and improve the interpretability of the findings for clinical use.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Black women who are at risk for breast cancer or have a family history of the disease.

Not a fit: Patients who are not Black or those who do not have risk factors for breast cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and personalized breast cancer screening and prevention strategies for Black women.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using artificial intelligence for breast cancer detection, but this specific approach targeting Black women is novel.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.