Mammography is a screening test that uses low dose x-rays to create pictures of the breast tissue. It is an effective way for women to detect breast cancer in its early stages, often before any symptoms are present.

However, for women with dense breast tissue, mammography can be less effective. Dense breast tissue can make it more difficult to detect abnormalities, as the tissue appears white on a mammogram, and so too can tumors.

As a result, it is particularly important for women with dense breast tissue to understand the importance of mammography and to take additional measures to ensure they are receiving the most effective screening possible.

What is Dense Breast Tissue?

Dense breast tissue refers to breast tissue that has a higher proportion of glandular and fibrous tissue than fatty tissue.

In general, younger women are more likely to have dense breast tissue, but approximately 40% of women over the age of 40 have dense breast tissue. Dense breast tissue is not abnormal, but it can make it more difficult to detect breast cancer on mammography.

The Challenges of Mammography for Women with Dense Breast Tissue

Mammography works by taking x-rays of the breast tissue, which are used to create images of the breast that can be examined for signs of cancer. However, dense breast tissue appears white on a mammogram, and so too can tumors.

This means that it can be more difficult to detect small areas of cancer or other abnormalities on a mammogram for women with dense breast tissue.

Women with dense breast tissue are also at a higher risk of developing breast cancer.

According to the American Cancer Society, women with dense breast tissue have a 1.2 to 2 times greater risk of developing breast cancer than women with less dense breast tissue. This increased risk, coupled with the challenges of mammography for women with dense breast tissue, means that it is particularly important for these women to undergo additional screening measures to ensure early detection and treatment.

Additional Screening Measures for Women with Dense Breast Tissue

For women with dense breast tissue, additional screening measures can help to ensure that any abnormalities are detected as early as possible. These measures may include:.

: Ultrasound

Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the breast tissue. It is often used as a follow-up to a mammogram, particularly for women with dense breast tissue.

Ultrasound can help to detect abnormalities that may have been missed on a mammogram, or to better characterize findings seen on a mammogram that are indeterminate.

: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

MRI uses a powerful magnet and radio waves to create images of the breast tissue. MRI is particularly useful for women at high risk of developing breast cancer, such as those with a family history of the disease.

MRI is also effective for detecting abnormalities in women with dense breast tissue.

: 3D Mammography

3D mammography, also known as digital breast tomosynthesis, is a newer type of mammography that uses multiple images taken from different angles to create a more detailed picture of the breast tissue.

3D mammography has been shown to be particularly effective for women with dense breast tissue.

When to Start Mammography Screening

The American Cancer Society recommends that women of average risk begin annual mammography screening at age 45, unless they choose to begin screening earlier.

Women should continue to have annual mammography screening until age 55, at which point they may choose to switch to every other year screening if they wish. Women with dense breast tissue may choose to begin mammography screening earlier, as directed by their healthcare provider, and may also choose to have additional screening measures beyond mammography.

The Bottom Line

Mammography is an important screening tool for women, but it is particularly important for women with dense breast tissue to take additional measures to ensure that any abnormalities are detected as early as possible.

Women with dense breast tissue should work with their healthcare provider to determine the best screening schedule for their individual needs, and should be proactive about advocating for their health.