What You Should Know About Dense Breasts

What are dense breasts?

Breast density measures the fibrous and glandular tissue in comparison to fatty tissue in your breasts. The more fibrous and glandular tissue present, the harder it is to detect cancer on a mammogram.

Your breast density can be influenced by genetics, body mass index, and hormone therapy. Aging and childbirth may reduce breast density over time.

How do you know if you have dense breasts?

Breast density is determined through imaging like a mammogram. Radiologists categorize breast density into four groups: almost entirely fatty, scattered areas of fibroglandular density, heterogeneously dense, and extremely dense. If your breasts fall into the last two categories, they are considered dense.

What will your mammogram report say?

Recent FDA regulations mandate that mammogram reports clearly indicate whether your breast tissue is dense or not. Reports will provide detailed information based on your breast density category.

Does having dense breasts put me at a higher risk for cancer?

Women with dense breasts face a higher risk of breast cancer, although the exact reasons are unclear. Black women are more likely to have extremely dense breasts, increasing their risk of undetected early-stage cancer.

What tests are available for women with dense breasts?

If you have dense breasts, a mammogram is still recommended. Discuss additional testing options with your doctor, which may include 3D mammography, breast ultrasound, or MRI for high-risk individuals.