
Dense breast tissue
Dense breast tissue refers to a higher amount of glandular and fibrous tissue in the breasts compared to fatty tissue. On a mammogram, dense tissue appears white, which can make it harder to detect abnormalities like tumors, since they also appear white. Having dense breasts is common and not necessarily a sign of health problems, but it can slightly increase the risk of breast cancer. Women are often informed of their breast density after screening, as it may influence further testing or screening methods. Maintaining regular screenings and discussing with a healthcare provider are important for comprehensive breast health.