Understanding Breast Density
Breasts are made up of fibrous, glandular and fatty tissue. The amount of each tissue determines the density. There are four categories of breast density.
Are dense breasts normal?
Dense breasts are normal, nearly 50% of females have them, and you cannot tell if you have dense breasts by their feel or size.
How can I find out my breast density?
A mammogram is the best way to determine your density. The density is reported every time you get your mammogram done. Fibrous and glandular tissue appears white on a mammogram (more dense) while fatty tissue appears dark (less dense). Females that have a C, Heterogeneously Dense or D, Extremely Dense classification are considered to have increased breast density.
Why know your density?
Dense breasts may increase your risk of breast cancer. Also, increased density can make it harder to see cancers on a mammogram. Fibrous and glandular tissue appears white on a mammogram (more dense) while fatty tissue appears dark (less dense). Areas of concern also appear white to a radiologist on a mammogram.
Be sure to talk with your provider about this risk factor and your recommended imaging.
Can breast density change?
Although hereditary factors can determine your breast density, it can change throughout your lifetime. Younger age, lower body mass, and hormone replacement therapy are associated with greater density. Breast density usually decreases after menopause, but it may persist for some individuals ages 75 and older.
To make an appointment for a mammogram screening, call 234.312.5800. For questions about breast density, call our Summa Health Imaging Nurse Navigator at 330.375.3089.