Breast Screening and Breast Density
Understanding Breast Density: What You Need to Know
What is Breast Density?
Breast Density Explained: Breast density refers to the proportion of fibroglandular tissue compared to fatty tissue in your breasts, as seen on a mammogram. Higher density means more fibroglandular tissue. Impact on Mammograms: Dense breasts can make it harder for mammograms to detect cancer, as both dense tissue and tumors appear white on the images.
Why Does Breast Density Matter?
Cancer Detection: Dense breasts may slightly increase the risk of breast cancer and can hide small tumors, making cancers harder to detect early.
Personalized Screening: If you have dense breasts, you might receive tailored advice or be recommended additional imaging, such as an ultrasound, based on your individual health needs.
What You Can Do:
Stay Informed: Ask your healthcare provider about your breast density and what it means for your screening routine.
Follow-Up: If advised, attend any additional imaging appointments to ensure thorough examination.
Regular Screenings: Keep up with regular mammograms, as they are essential for early detection, even with dense breasts.
Key Contacts & Resources:
Book Your Appointment: Call 13 20 50 for BreastScreen appointments. For interpreter assistance, contact TIS at 13 14 50.
Learn More: Access detailed resources like the Cancer Council’s “BreastScreen and You” brochure or BreastScreen NSW’s factsheet, available in multiple languages.
Points to Remember:
Younger Women and Density: Women aged 40-49 often have denser breasts, which can limit mammogram sensitivity. Discuss your personal screening plan with our team.
Individualized Care: Not all services notify about density routinely; decisions are guided by national and state guidelines to avoid overdiagnosis.
If you are recalled byour team to discuss your breast density, please complete the I-prevent breast cancer risk assessment on this link and bring your results to your appointment so your GP can best plan your individualised screening program.
Questions or Concerns?
Feel free to reach out to our healthcare team with any questions about breast density and your screening options. We’re here to help you make informed health decisions!
