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Dense Breast Tissue

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Dense Breast Tissue & Supplemental Screening

Having dense breast tissue – which about 40 to 50% of women do – increases the risk of getting breast cancer by 1.7 times. That’s because dense tissue can hide cancers a standard screening mammogram might otherwise find. That’s why it’s so important to know your breast density and about the supplemental screening options that can increase the likelihood of early detection.

If you've been advised that you have dense breast tissue, talk to your provider about your risk and options, ask about supplemental screening and contact our Concierge Program team at 614-663-2908 or thebreastdesk@mchs.com.

We’ll help guide you through the supplemental screening process so you can make informed choices and have the peace of mind that comes with reducing your risk. 
 

While all breasts are made up of fatty and fibrous or glandular tissue, not all breasts have the same combination of the two. When there is more fibrous/glandular tissue than fatty tissue, the breast is considered dense. Breast density is classified into one of four categories:

A.    Almost entirely fatty
B.    Scattered areas of fibroglandular density
C.    Heterogeneously dense
D.    Extremely dense
 

The last two categories are considered dense. And while dense breast tissue is completely normal, it does mean that additional imaging may be helpful to get a clearer picture of your breast cancer risk.

Breast ultrasound and breast MRI are two supplemental screenings that, when combined with mammography, can improve early detection. In fact, ultrasound detects as many as three additional cancers per 1,000 women. All are relatively painless and allow you to lie down comfortably during screening. These are the three screening types we offer here at Mount Carmel:

  • Handheld Whole Breast Ultrasound
    The sonographers who perform these screenings are highly skilled and dedicated to breast ultrasound, as are the expert radiologists who specialize in breast imaging and read and interpret your results. Handheld whole breast ultrasounds are available at Mount Carmel East, Mount Carmel New Albany, Mount Carmel St. Ann’s, Mount Carmel Grove City and Mount Carmel Dublin.

 

  • Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS)
    ABUS uses an automated system to capture multiple images and offers a more comprehensive view of the breast. It’s then interpreted by our expert, breast-trained radiologists. ABUS is available at Mount Carmel Grove City and Mount Carmel St. Ann’s.

 

  • Abbreviated Breast MRI
    Abbreviated breast MRI is a high-resolution, detailed imaging option that’s especially helpful for women with dense breast tissue or moderate risk. It is offered at multiple Mount Carmel Health System locations throughout the city.  

 

Getting the screenings and care you need shouldn’t be complicated. That’s why our Women’s Imaging Concierge Program is here to help. We’ll guide you through every step—from scheduling supplemental screenings and coordinating with your provider to fast-tracking access to the care you deserve.

Let us make your experience easier, more personal, and focused on you.