Think Pinker

Mammograms are x-rays taken of breast tissue for the purpose of diagnosing breast cancer. By the time we’re 35, we have most likely had at least one experience with a mammogram. Monthly breast self-examination is another important tool for early detection of breast cancer. 

What does dense breast tissue have to do with a mammogram or self exam? When women are young, their breasts are made up of the specialized breast tissue that produces milk during lactation. This tissue is very thick, or dense. As women age, the breast tissue changes. Fat replaces the dense milk-producing breast tissue. 

Why does thick breast tissue have the potential to cause problems with mammograms and self exams? Thicker breast tissue makes it more difficult to identify abnormalities on a mammogram. On an x-ray film, tumors and thick tissue show up in white. This can affect the diagnostic outcome if breast cancer is suspected, making it more difficult to see tumors.

Dense breast tissue also has an impact on what women feel when they conduct self exams. Breasts are rather lumpy, so it is sometimes difficult to distinguish between normal lumpy breasts and a potential problem. Tumors are usually much harder than the bumpy normal breast tissue. Women who examine their breasts each month will usually be familiar enough with their own bodies to notice a difference between the two.

Older women have fewer problems with images on mammograms and feeling changes in their breasts because they have less dense breast tissue. Perhaps there really is one advantage to getting older. This does not change the fact that women over 50 are at an increased risk of breast cancer than younger women. All women over age 35 should have a mammogram and should conduct monthly self breast exams.