When women undergo a mammogram, the most crucial aspect doctors look for is any indication of breast cancer.
Following closely is the density of the breast tissue, which has become a focal point due to a new U.S. regulation established in early September. This rule mandates that mammography centers notify women about their breast density. Many states had similar laws before, so some women may already be aware of this information.
Understanding Breast Density
Breast density is classified into four categories by doctors reviewing mammograms. The least dense category consists primarily of fatty tissue, while the most dense category consists mostly of glandular and fibrous tissue. Breasts are labeled as dense if they fall into the “heterogeneously dense” or “extremely dense” categories; the other categories are considered not dense.
Dr. Brian Dontchos of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle notes that determining breast density can be subjective, varying based on the interpreting doctor.
Are Dense Breasts a Cause for Concern?
No, having dense breasts is not inherently negative. In fact, they are quite common, with about 40% of women aged 40 and older classified as having dense breasts. Dense breast tissue does not correlate with breast firmness, and it can occur in women of all shapes and sizes, explained Dr. Ethan Cohen from MD Anderson Cancer Center.
With the implementation of this new rule, many women may have questions and turn to Google for answers. However, Dr. Cohen encourages women not to panic, emphasizing the importance of discussing any concerns with healthcare providers.
Why Am I Being Informed About Dense Breasts?
You might be informed about your breast density for two primary reasons. First, dense breast tissue can complicate cancer detection during a mammogram since both dense tissue and cancer appear white on X-ray images, making it challenging to distinguish between the two. Dr. Wendie Berg from the University of Pittsburgh describes it as attempting to spot a snowball in a blizzard.
Secondly, women with denser breast tissue may have a slightly elevated risk of developing breast cancer, as tumors are more likely to form in glandular and fibrous tissue. Fortunately, studies indicate that women with dense breasts are no more likely to die from breast cancer than those with non-dense breasts.
Next Steps After Receiving Density Information
If you learn you have dense breasts, it’s advisable to have a conversation with your doctor regarding your family history of breast cancer. This discussion could help determine if additional screening, such as ultrasound or MRI, is necessary, as recommended by Dr. Georgia Spear from Endeavor Health.
Current research aims to find better methods for detecting cancer in women with dense breasts. However, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has indicated that there is insufficient evidence to broadly recommend additional screenings at this time.
Should I Continue with Mammograms?
Absolutely. Women with dense breasts should continue to schedule regular mammograms, as they remain the best method for early cancer detection. It is suggested that screenings commence at age 40 for women, transgender men, and nonbinary individuals at average risk.
Dr. Spear reiterates that instead of replacing mammograms, additional tests should serve to enhance the existing screening process.
Will My Insurance Cover Extra Screening?
The answer to this question currently depends on your specific insurance policy. However, proposed legislation is being considered in Congress to ensure that insurers cover additional screenings for women with dense breasts. It’s important to note that extra screenings can come with significant costs, ranging from $250 to $1,000 out of pocket, which can pose a barrier for many women seeking early detection of cancer.
Dr. Berg emphasizes that all women should have equal opportunities for early cancer detection when treatment is most effective, marking this as a key issue in women’s health.
This article is part of AP’s Be Well coverage, which emphasizes wellness, fitness, diet, and mental health. Read more Be Well.
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The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
