Why an ultrasound may be lifesaving
If you've recently had a mammogram, you may have learned that you have dense breast tissue. About 40–50% of women fall into this category, and while it’s not a cause for alarm, dense breast tissue can make breast cancer harder to detect.
Understanding your breast density can help you and your doctor make the best choices about screening. Mammograms are important, but dense tissue can make it harder to see small changes, which means a breast ultrasound may be right for you. If you have concerns about your breast health or want to learn more about your screening options, connect with a doctor at Endeavor Health by visiting our website or calling us at (847) 618-3700.
Why a breast ultrasound?
Dense breast tissue means there is more glandular and connective tissue than fatty tissue in the breast. Both dense tissue and tumors appear as white areas on the X-ray, making a tumor hard to spot—like a "snowball in a snowstorm." For this reason, your doctor may recommend a supplemental screening with a breast ultrasound.
Ultrasounds use high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the breast. Unlike mammograms, breast density does not affect how well an ultrasound can see through the tissue. A breast ultrasound can find cancers that are hidden on a mammogram, especially in women with dense breasts.
While a breast ultrasound can be a powerful tool, mammograms remain essential to your overall breast health. Some early signs of breast cancer, such as microcalcifications, can only be seen on a mammogram. Ultrasound works alongside your mammogram to give your doctor the clearest picture of your breast health.
Who is at risk?
Dense breast tissue is often inherited and is more common in younger women and women with a lower body weight. Certain medications and hormone therapies can also affect breast density. Even without a family history of breast cancer, having dense breast tissue can make it harder to detect cancer on a mammogram, which is why your doctor may recommend a supplemental ultrasound.
The only way to know your breast density is through a mammogram. A radiologist will review the images and classify your breasts into one of four categories, from almost entirely fatty to extremely dense. Knowing your density helps you and your doctor decide if adding an ultrasound or other screening method is right for you.
Taking charge of your breast health
Detecting breast changes early can make treatment simpler and more effective. People with dense breasts may benefit from additional screening, like a supplemental ultrasound, to catch changes that a mammogram might miss. Talking with your doctor about your personal risk factors, including family history, genetics, and previous health issues, can help you decide which screenings are best for you.
Staying up to date with your mammograms and any recommended supplemental screenings is one of the most important steps you can take for your health. Early detection often leads to less aggressive treatment and greater peace of mind. Knowing your options and working closely with your care team can help you feel confident in your breast health journey.
Your partner in breast health
At Endeavor Health, we are dedicated to helping everyone be their best. Our team of experts understand the challenges that come with dense breast tissue and the importance of thorough screenings. We offer a full range of breast health services, from mammograms to supplemental screenings like ultrasounds, to provide you with a personalized care plan. To learn more about your breast health and discuss which screening options are right for you, visit our website or call us at (847) 618-3700 to schedule a consultation with a doctor today.
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