What Breast Density Really Means for Cancer Risk

Since 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has required mammogram reports sent to patients after screening to include information about breast density, described as either “not dense” or “dense.” The reports will also include which of the four categories best describes your breast tissue.

If your breast tissue is not dense, the report will say, “Your breast tissue is not dense. Talk to your health care provider about breast density, risks for breast cancer and your individual situation.”

If your breast tissue is dense, the report will say, “Your breast tissue is dense. In some people with dense tissue, other imaging tests in addition to a mammogram may help find cancer. Talk to your health care provider about breast density, risks for breast cancer and your individual situation.”

How Does Dense Breast Tissue Affect Your Risk for Cancer?

Having dense breast tissue can make it more difficult to see breast cancer on a mammogram. That is because both cancer and dense breast tissue appear white. Dense breast tissue can also slightly increase your risk of developing breast cancer, although the reason for this is not yet well understood.

What Causes Dense Breast Tissue?

Dense breast tissue is more common in younger women, women who have a lower percentage of body fat or women who use hormone replacement therapy. Breast density can change and become less dense with age, but that is not always the case.

 Cancer Screening with Dense Breast Tissue

If you have dense breast tissue, it is important to discuss your screening options with your health care provider. Your provider can determine your overall risk based on family history, genetic risk factors and breast density. Depending on your risk, your provider may recommend additional screening.

Mammogram

Experts agree that an annual mammogram is still an effective screening method for breast cancer, even if you have dense breast tissue. Newer mammography methods, including 3D mammograms and contrast-enhanced mammograms, provide radiologists with clearer images of breast tissue.

Ultrasound and MRI

For some women, a breast ultrasound or MRI can provide more detailed imaging of breast tissue and help determine whether solid masses or fluid-filled cysts are present. These tests are often recommended for women with a high risk of breast cancer or an abnormal finding on a mammogram. However, ultrasound and MRI are more likely to find areas of concern that are later found not to be cancer, leading to unnecessary biopsies and stress.

“There are options for breast cancer screening, even if your breast tissue is categorized as dense,” said Dr. Deitch. “Early detection with a mammogram, ultrasound or MRI is the best way to find breast cancer when it is most treatable.”

Breast Cancer Screening in Nassau and Suffolk Counties

Learn more about our breast cancer screening programs or make an appointment for breast cancer screening.

FAQ/People Also Ask

What does it mean when my mammogram report says I have dense breast tissue?

Since 2024, the FDA requires all mammogram reports to include information about breast density. If your report says you have dense breast tissue, it means you have more fibrous and glandular tissue than fatty tissue in your breasts. Talk to your health care provider about what this means for your screening plan.

Does dense breast tissue cause pain or other symptoms?

Dense breast tissue does not cause pain or other symptoms. Most women do not know they have dense breast tissue until they receive their mammogram results.

Is dense breast tissue hereditary?

Research suggests that breast density may run in families, but it is not fully determined by genetics. Genetic counseling can help you understand your likelihood of developing cancer. Factors such as age, body weight and hormone use may play a role.

Can I feel dense breast tissue?

No. Dense breast tissue cannot be detected by touch. The only way to know if you have dense breast tissue is through a mammogram. That is why regular mammography screening is so important.