What is Breast Density?
Did you know that about 40% of women have dense breast tissue? Having dense breasts is completely normal—it just means your breasts have more tissue than fat. However, this can make it a bit trickier to detect breast cancer with a standard mammogram. That’s why it’s essential to know about supplemental screenings that can give you a clearer picture of your breast health.
Why is Knowing Your Breast Density Important?
Your breast density is something your radiologist determines when they read your mammogram. This information is included in your mammogram results, so be sure to ask your doctor about your breast density. Every woman should know her breast density because it can affect how breast cancer is detected.
Mammography Remains the Key Screening Method
- Mammograms:
- What it does: Detects suspicious lumps that might indicate early-stage cancers.
- Why it’s important: Mammograms are essential, but they might not catch everything in dense breasts.
Additional Screening Options for Dense Breasts
If your mammogram shows you have dense breasts, consider these additional screenings:
- Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS):
- What it does: Detects small cancers that a mammogram might miss in dense breast tissue.
- How it works: A painless exam using sound waves to create 3D pictures of your breast tissue.
- Duration: Takes less than 30 minutes.
- Benefits: No radiation, no compression, and it provides a clearer picture for your doctor.
- Abbreviated Breast MRI (AB-MRI or FAST MRI):
- What it does: Screens for additional breast cancers not seen on mammography, especially in women with dense breast tissue.
- How it works: A shorter version of a full breast MRI that scans you for about 6-7 minutes during a 30-minute appointment.
- Benefits: Detects more cancers when combined with a mammogram, especially aggressive invasive cancers.
What to Expect During Your Screening
Automated Breast Ultrasound or ABUS:
- You’ll lie down while a layer of lotion is applied to your breast.
- A scanner will then be firmly positioned to acquire images.
- The whole process takes about 15 minutes and provides clear 3D ultrasound images.
Abbreviated Breast MRI or AB-MRI:
- This quick procedure is done in about 6-7 minutes.
- It’s designed to find additional cancers that a mammogram might miss.
Important Insurance Information
Your insurance might not cover these additional exams. It’s a good idea to check with your provider or contact the screening center before your appointment to see if these exams are included in your plan.
Ask your doctor if Abbreviated Breast MRI or Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS) screening would benefit you. Knowing your breast density and understanding your screening options can help ensure you receive the best possible care!
