Dana H. Whaley, M.D.

The research of Dana H. Whaley, M.D., involves all aspects of imaging tests to detect breast cancer. In addition to developing and testing new modalities, he is involved with making improvements to — and finding the most effective use of — existing technology.

Dr. Whaley is working to develop computer-based aids to cancer detection and image-based risk evaluation to improve breast cancer screening. The goal of all breast cancer screening is to reliably find smaller cancers that are easier to successfully treat.

Dr. Whaley's research has included support from the National Institutes of Health, Department of Defense, Komen Foundation, National Cancer Institute, Mayo Clinic and multiple industry sponsors.

Focus areas

• Bringing individualized medicine approaches to breast cancer screening in order to optimize cancer detection, minimize false-positive studies, and identify the most cost-effective approach to screening
• Auditing and quality measures for breast cancer screening
• Quantitative analysis of breast density and image-related breast cancer risk determination, including computer-aided detection (CAD)
• Development, evaluation and clinical integration of new and innovative breast imaging technologies, including tomosynthesis, molecular breast imaging, automated whole breast ultrasound, transmission ultrasound and vibro-acoustography
• Study of breast arterial calcification and evaluation of its clinical significance

Significance to patient care

The ultimate goal of Dr. Whaley's research is to provide each woman with a breast cancer screening plan designed and optimized specifically for her. Evaluation of each patient's risk and imaging profile will allow selection of the best combination, sequencing and timing of various screening exams.

This individualized approach will provide the most sensitive early detection of cancer, while at the same time providing cost-effective screening exams and minimizing unnecessary procedures.