- One Type of Mammogram Proves Better for Women With Dense Breasts The New York Times
- Call for NHS to give women with dense breasts extra cancer scans BBC
- Extra cancer screening could help pick up early cases in dense breasts New Scientist
- Additional imaging techniques can detect early stage cancers missed by mammograms in women with dense breasts Medical Xpress
- Extra cancer scans for women with dense breasts could save 700 lives a year – UK study The Guardian
Dense Breasts and Cancer Screening: An expert Q&A
Is a New Type of Mammogram the Answer?
Recent headlines highlight the importance of tailored breast cancer screening for women with dense breasts. But what does this mean for you? Time.news spoke with Dr. Evelyn Reed, a leading radiologist specializing in breast imaging, to get the facts.
Time.news: Dr. Reed, thank you for joining us. Recent reports suggest that standard mammograms may not be enough for women with dense breasts. can you explain why?
Dr. Reed: Certainly. Breast density refers to the amount of fibrous and glandular tissue compared to fatty tissue in the breast. Dense breast tissue can make it harder for radiologists to spot tumors on a mammogram as both dense tissue and tumors appear white [2]. It’s like trying to find a snowball in a snowstorm. In fact, approximately 40% to 50% of women undergoing mammography have dense tissue [2].
Time.news: So, what are the alternatives? We’ve seen reports about additional imaging techniques.
Dr. reed: Exactly.Because dense breast tissue reduces the accuracy of mammography to detect breast cancer, additional imaging techniques can detect early stage cancers missed by mammograms in women with dense breasts [4] . One promising avenue for women with dense breasts is supplemental screening,such as MRI,ultrasound,or contrast-enhanced mammography. One study published recently evaluated different supplemental screening methods [1]. The study found that MRI proved to be better for women with dense breast tissue [1].
Time.news: What about the call for the NHS to provide extra cancer scans for women with dense breasts, as reported by the BBC?
dr. Reed: that highlights growing awareness and concern about this issue. A UK study suggests that offering additional scans could significantly improve early detection and perhaps save lives – possibly around 700 lives a year [5]. The challenge, of course, lies in implementing these programs on a broad scale, considering resource allocation and logistical hurdles.
Time.news: Are there any downsides to these additional screenings?
Dr. Reed: It’s crucial to acknowledge that additional screenings can lead to more false positives, requiring further inquiry and causing anxiety for patients. Each imaging technique has its own set of benefits and limitations. It’s about finding the right balance – maximizing detection while minimizing needless interventions.
Time.news: What practical advice do you have for women who know they have dense breasts?
Dr. Reed: First, don’t panic [2]! Dense breast tissue by itself doesn’t mean you will get cancer. Second, discuss your breast density with your doctor. Ask about your individual risk factors and whether supplemental screening is appropriate for you. Advocate for yourself and be proactive about your breast health.
Time.news: What about the risk of radiation exposure from mammograms?
dr. Reed: While it’s true that dense breast tissue absorbs more radiation during mammography [3], the radiation dose from modern digital mammography is very low.Screening mammography remains the most useful tool for breast cancer detection and consistently has [3]. The benefits of early detection generally outweigh the risks. Newer technologies, like tomosynthesis (3D mammography), are also designed to improve accuracy with a similar radiation dose.
Time.news: Dr. Reed, this has been incredibly informative. Thank you for your time.
Dr. Reed: My pleasure.Remember, early detection is key.
