WANTED: Five Thousand Horizon BCBSNJ Members for National Study to Improve Breast Cancer Screening
Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey is inviting eligible members to participate in the Women Informed to Screen Depending On Measures of risk (WISDOM) Study, sponsored by Athena Breast Health Network of the University of California in collaboration with Horizon BCBSNJ.
The WISDOM Study is working to revolutionize breast cancer screening by determining if a personalized breast cancer screening schedule improves detection while reducing over-diagnosis and false positive readings. Horizon BCBSNJ is helping to support the WISDOM Study by recruiting eligible members to participate in this important initiative, and is covering the cost for 5,000 of its members to participate in this five-year study.
There is no requirement for Horizon BCSBNJ members to participate in the WISDOM study. Nevertheless, we are encouraging our eligible members to take part and be one of the 100,000 women sharing their wisdom.
Why do we need the WISDOM Study?
Mammography is useful but not perfect. Studies show that one in 10 mammograms results in a false positive reading, which can lead to unnecessary invasive procedures. Meanwhile, under-screening women at high risk may lead to missed opportunities for early detection.¹
By comparing these screening scheduling approaches, the WISDOM Study will determine which is better: routine annual mammography or a personalized screening schedule that includes genetic testing for breast cancer risk. Women in the personalized group will receive a screening schedule recommendation based on their genetic results and personal factors like age, family history and breast density.
Who can Join the Study?
All female Horizon BCBSNJ members who:
- Are between the ages of 40 and 74 years
- Have not had breast cancer or ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)
How to Participate
It’s easy and free to participate. With the WISDOM Study there’s no need to change where you get your mammogram or go to extra clinic visits.
Your participation in this study can make a big difference to the health and peace of mind of all women now and for generations to come. The more women who participate, the more WISDOM we gain about the best breast cancer screening scheduling approach to create a better screening experience for all women today and for your daughters and granddaughters tomorrow.
If you’re interested in learning more about the WISDOM Study and whether you qualify to participate, visit wisdomstudy.org.
¹ https://ww5.komen.org/BreastCancer/AccuracyofMammograms.html