A groundbreaking study led by researchers at Valley Health System suggests that routine screening mammograms may serve a dual purpose: not only detecting breast cancer but also identifying a woman’s potential risk for cardiovascular disease.
The study, which was presented at the 2026 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting, evaluated the link between heart disease and Breast Arterial Calcifications (BAC)—calcium deposits that can form in the arteries of the breast.
Bridging breast and heart health
While most patients associate mammograms solely with breast health, these screenings can reveal incidental findings unrelated to cancer. The Valley Health research team analyzed 650 women, utilizing laboratory data and standard cardiovascular risk factors to calculate their 10-year risk of heart attack or stroke.
The findings were striking: 15.1% of the patients had BACs, and those who did were significantly more likely to have higher cardiovascular risk. Among patients with detected BACs, 61.2% were classified as having intermediate or high cardiovascular risk, compared to only 20.8% of those without the calcifications.
“Women face an often-under-recognized risk of heart disease,” said Dr. Kariann Abbate, Director of the Advanced Heart Failure and Recovery Program at The Valley Hospital. “The results from our study identify breast arterial calcifications as an opportunity to report on heart health while also reporting on breast health… patients will no longer need two separate tests.”
A new standard of care at Valley
Recognizing the power of this correlation, Valley Health System has announced a major shift in its diagnostic protocols.
“Given the overwhelming evidence demonstrating the link between the presence of breast arterial calcifications and increased risk for coronary artery disease and stroke, we will now be reporting the presence or absence of BACs in our screening and diagnostic mammography reports,” said Dr. Elina Zaretsky, Director of Breast Imaging at The Valley Hospital.
This integration means patients diagnosed with BACs will now be proactively referred to cardiologists for preventive care, effectively turning the mammogram into a more comprehensive tool for women’s health.
Take charge of your health
As heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women in the United States, this research highlights the importance of staying current with routine screenings. Valley Health System encourages women to prioritize their wellness by scheduling their annual mammogram.
Appointments can be booked at Valley’s locations in Mahwah, Montvale, Paramus, and Ridgewood by visiting ValleyHealth.com/Mammogram or calling 201-447-8200.
