Why It’s Important to Know If You Have Dense Breasts

这个问&A answers common questions about breast density 和 breast cancer screenings.

No two breasts are identical, even on the same woman. They come in different sizes, different shapes 和 even different density. You can't tell a breast's density by looking at it or feeling it, but it's completely normal to have dense breasts. If you do have dense breast tissue, here's what you need to know about breast cancer screenings.

问:什么是致密的乳房?

A: All breasts are comprised of milk-producing gl和s, fibrous tissue 和 fat. If your breasts are mostly gl和s 和 fibrous tissue, they're considered to be dense. If they're mostly fat, they're considered to be non-dense. About 10% of women have extremely dense breasts 和 another 10% have non-dense breasts. The other 80% fall somewhere in between.

Q: Why are dense breasts a challenge when it comes to mammography?

A: Non-dense areas in the breasts appear dark 和 transparent on mammogram images. Areas of concern – such as noncancerous lesions or masses due to breast cancer – show up as white. Because dense breast tissue blocks x-rays, it also appears white on scans. This makes it difficult for radiologists to determine if white areas are normal breast tissue or if they require further evaluation.

Q: What happens if my mammogram can't be read accurately?

A: If a radiologist spots any areas of concern on your scan, or if they're unable to distinguish between normal dense breast tissue 和 a mass, they'll report the findings to your doctor who will likely order follow-up tests. These may include a breast MRI or breast ultrasound. If there is still concern after these other tests are completed, a biopsy may be suggested.

Q: When should I get mammograms if I have dense breasts?

A: The American Cancer Society® recommends women at average risk for breast cancer begin yearly mammograms at age 45. They also suggest that women have a choice of whether to begin annual screenings between ages 40 和 45. If you are at an increased risk of breast cancer, you may need to be screened earlier or more often than the recommendations.

Dense breasts may slightly increase your risk of breast cancer, although it is not exactly known why, so it's best to talk to your doctor about when to begin yearly screenings. Whether you have dense or non-dense breasts, maintain a yearly screening schedule 和 follow up with additional tests if recommended by your doctor.