Look for Your This on Your Next Mammogram Report

New mammography regulations are now in effect, which means you’ll start seeing an explanation about your breast density on your next mammogram report. In the U.S., almost half of women who are over 40 years old have dense breast tissue. The dense areas, as opposed to fatty tissue, show up as white, nontransparent areas on a mammogram, making cancer detection more difficult.

Before these updated requirements from the FDA, breast density reporting and state regulations varied and were widely inconsistent. Now, women will receive better, easier-to-understand information about their level of breast density and what it means. With a better understanding of their breast density, the hope is that the additional information will start conversations between women and their doctors about their risks and a potential plan for more imaging like an ultrasound.

Having dense breast tissue is common but knowing that you have it is important because it can mask a potential cancer and go undetected. Dense breast tissue also increases your risk of developing breast cancer, though doctors aren’t certain why. It is suggested that the increase in risk could be due to the amount of glandular tissue contained in the breast. Glandular tissue lines certain internal organs and is commonly found in other areas of the body including the lungs, colon, stomach uterus and cervix. This tissue makes and releases mucus and other substances in the body and is thought to be more likely to develop cancer, but more research needs to be done.

Women with an average risk of breast cancer should begin screening at the age of 40 and continue regular screenings each year. Mammograms continue to be the best tool for breast cancer screening and detection. Talk to your doctor about your risk factors, and be sure to perform regular breast self-exams, so that you are aware of any changes in your breasts.

If you're 40 or older, schedule your mammogram today.