How does my breast density determine my breast screening?
The best way to determine breast density is through a mammogram. During a mammogram, low-dose X-rays are directed at the breast tissue to create an image. Radiologists analyze these images and differentiate between different tissues based on their appearance.
Breast density is a measure of how much fibrous and glandular tissue exists in the breast compared to fatty tissue. It is not related to breast size or firmness.
On a mammogram, fibrous and glandular tissue appear white and are harder to see through, whereas with fatty tissue is easier to see through the tissue. Radiologists categorize breast density into four categories:
Category A: Almost all fatty tissue.
Category B: Scattered areas of dense glandular and fibrous tissue.
Category C: More of the breast is composed of dense glandular and fibrous tissue (described as heterogeneously dense). This can make it challenging to detect small masses within or around the dense tissue.
Category D: Extremely dense breasts, which make it harder to identify masses or other findings on the mammogram.
In general, patients falling into categories C (heterogeneously dense) or D (extremely dense) are considered to have dense breast tissue. Approximately half of all women in the US who undergo mammograms fall into these categories.
On March 9, 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration published updates to the mammography regulations that require mammography facilities to notify patients about the density of their breast. Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) of 1992
Mammogram reports sent to healthcare providers typically include a description of breast density, allowing your provider to inform you if your mammogram indicates dense breasts, generally under "Breast Composition."
Knowing your breast density will help you navigate the most effective testing for your breast health.
Your Breast Friend,
Edie A. Tolbert
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