Women With Dense Breast Tissue| What You Should Know

Mammograms still remain the most effective way to detect breast cancer. However, having dense breast tissue can make reading a mammogram more challenging. The reason is tumors intends tissue are harder to detect. According to a recent ABC news story doctors are creating new ways to help women and other doctors detect breast cancer earlier. Approximate 10% of American women have will be considered dense breast tissue. A recent study by the National Cancer Institute indicated that women with dense breast tissue were more likely to die than patients who did not have breast tissue that was as dense. Dense breast tissue has been linked with a for to sixfold increase in a womans risk of developing breast cancer, partially due to the fact that tumors within the dense breast tissue are harder to spot using a mammogram.Mammography is the most effective tool that we have for detecting early breast cancer, said Dr. Jennifer Harvey, radiology professor and director of breast imaging at the University of Virginia. The way that we measure breast density is not very good. Harvey is developing a risk model study that is being funded by a $5.5 million government grant. It will continue to be developed throughout the next three years. If successful the model could be available to be used widely in the US within six years. Dr. Kim advises women who have had breast augmentation, breast lift, or breast reduction to follow the American Cancer Societys recommendation for early detection of breast cancer. This includes monthly breast self exam as well as a yearly mammogram beginning at age 40. It is important for patients to realize that breast surgery does not change the recommendation for maintaining breast health. Patients who are considering breast augmentation are encouraged to contact Dr. Kim and schedule a consultation.