Screening for Dense Breasts

Annual mammograms are the best way to catch breast cancer early, but not all breasts are the same. Dense breast tissue can mask the appearance of tumors, making it more difficult for mammography to detect cancer.

If you are one of the 40% of women with dense breast tissue, your provider may recommend a whole breast ultrasound or automated breast ultrasound (ABUS) for additional screening and added peace of mind.

What is breast density?

Breast density is determined by the radiologist who reads your mammogram and classifies the density into one of four categories. Your provider will tell you if you have dense breasts based on your mammogram’s classification on the density scale.

What is a whole breast ultrasound?                

A whole breast ultrasound is a non-invasive examination. Unlike traditional mammography, ultrasound technology is not affected by breast density, and as a secondary screening examination, it can see through dense tissue. Clinical evidence demonstrates that supplementing mammography with ultrasound technology for women with dense breast tissue can substantially increase breast cancer detection.

Our facility uses Automated breast ultrasound (ABUS), which produces sharp, three-dimensional images of the breast.

A breast ultrasound screening requires a physician order. Ask your doctor if a breast ultrasound screening would benefit you. 

Talk with your provider about your family history, areas of concern, and breast cancer risk. The sooner any form of breast cancer is detected, the greater the likelihood that treatment will be successful.

Schedule your screening mammogram today by calling 276.596.6185.