What Is Breast Density and How Does It Affect Your Mammogram Results?
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Breast density describes how much fibrous breast tissue and glandular tissue you have compared with fat. Dense breast tissue is common and not a problem by itself per se, yet it can make mammograms harder to read and is linked with a higher risk of breast cancer over time. At Professionals for Women's Health in Columbus, OH, our experienced team of women's health specialists is highly knowledgeable in the nuances and implications of breast density and is here to help you understand what this may mean for your future mammogram screenings.
Generally speaking, your mammogram may include a density category so you know where you fall and whether added screening could be helpful. Take a closer look here at what to know about a mammogram if you have dense breast tissue and other important information to consider.
How do you know if you have dense breast tissue?
In most cases, the first indication of breast density is that you will see it on your annual mammogram report. Radiologists classify density into four groups, and your category will be listed in the summary you receive. These four breast density levels include:
- Fatty
- Scattered fibroglandular
- Heterogeneously dense
- Extremely dense
Many women fall into the middle two groups of breast density. Density can change with age, weight shifts, pregnancy, and hormones so it is normal for your category to change over the years. If your report mentions dense tissue, our team will talk through what that means and whether your screening plan should be adjusted.
Does dense breast tissue increase your risk of breast cancer?
While dense tissue is one of several factors that can raise the lifetime risk of breast cancer, it does not definitively mean you will get cancer and does not replace other breast cancer risks, such as family history or genetic findings. We look at the full picture of breast health, including age, personal history, medications, and lifestyle, to personalize your breast cancer screening schedule. If your risk is elevated, we will discuss options like early mammograms or added imaging.
Does breast density hide cancer on a mammogram?
Dense tissue can make small findings harder to see because both dense tissue and certain types of breast tumors appear white on the image. This is why your report calls out density and why our specialists may suggest a follow-up imaging study or a more in-depth diagnostic screening to clarify the findings.
Do you need mammograms more often with dense breast tissue?
Most women — even those with dense breast tissue — will continue annual mammogram screening starting at the age recommended by their provider, yet some may benefit from added tests based on individual risk. Again, if your breasts are heterogeneously dense or extremely dense, we may recommend more frequent mammograms or more targeted screenings as part of your well-woman care that help provide a more accurate and complete picture of your breast health, and give you the confidence and peace of mind you deserve.
Take charge of your feminine health with regular mammograms in Columbus, OH
Our caring team at Professionals for Women's Health believes that every woman deserves clear answers and a breast cancer screening plan that takes their unique anatomy and risk factors into consideration. If you have previously been found to have dense breast tissue or have concerns about possible breast density on a mammogram, contact us to schedule your consultation for advanced breast screening and care in Columbus, OH today.