Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. announced recently that legislation he sponsored requiring a report on the use of computer aided detection (CAD) devices in mammography screenings has been signed into law by Governor George Pataki.

The new law requires the state superintendent of insurance and the commissioner of health to assess whether the use of computer aided detection devices provide measurably better results in detection of breast cancer as well as determine the estimated cost to insurance policyholders for CAD use. A report of these findings to the legislature and governor is required by the law.

"Previous studies have indicated computer-aided devices can detect almost 20 percent more breast cancers than traditional mammography by providing digital readings of mammograms," Fuschillo said. "This could result in earlier detection, earlier treatment and ultimately, saving lives."

In June of 1998, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first granted approval to a new computer technology designed to aid radiologists in the review of mammography screening X-rays. In May 2001, this approval was expanded to cover diagnostic as well as screening mammograms. The high computer sensitivity of CADs marks possible cancer spots on mammograms. The radiologist uses those marks to review the original mammogram, focusing on areas identified by the CAD device. Most insurance companies do not currently pay for use of the device.

"This law builds on action by the federal government regarding the use of CADs and insurance coverage under Medicare," Fuschillo said. "Studying the effectiveness of CADs at the state level and the potential costs of requiring insurance coverage of the use of CADs will help the state determine whether this process should be included as part of our mammography coverage requirements. I applaud Governor Pataki for signing this measure into law."

Senator announced recently that legislation he sponsored authorizing Nassau County to grant a partial county property tax abatement for senior citizens has been signed into law by Governor George Pataki.

"Tax increases impose an undue burden on low and moderate-income senior citizens living on fixed incomes," Fuschillo said. "The law I sponsored will enable Nassau County to authorize a tax abatement to reduce or eliminate this increased tax for eligible senior citizens. As many as 53,000 Nassau County senior citizen homeowners may qualify for this relief.

"The intent is similar to the successful STAR program that has saved homeowners, especially senior citizens, millions of dollars in school property taxes," said Fuschillo. "I commend the governor for signing this bill into law and I hope Nassau County will authorize this tax relief for seniors."