At Akira Medical Imaging + Wellness, we’re all about keeping you informed, empowered, and feeling your best. One question that often pops up during mammogram screenings is about dense breast tissue—what it means, why it matters, and how it impacts breast health. Let’s dive in and get the facts straight, along with insight into how New York State is making it easier than ever to stay on top of your breast health.
What Is Dense Breast Tissue?
Breast density is all about the ratio of fibrous and glandular tissue to fatty tissue in your breasts. It’s not something you can feel—it’s only detectable through a mammogram. If you have dense breasts, it simply means you have more fibrous or glandular tissue than fatty tissue. And guess what? That’s totally normal! Around 40% of women have dense breasts. But because dense tissue shows up white on a mammogram, just like potential tumors, it can sometimes make it harder to see what’s really going on. That’s why a little extra care and attention can make all the difference.
The Challenges of Dense Breast Tissue
It Can Hide Things: Dense tissue and tumors both show up white on a mammogram, making it trickier for radiologists to spot abnormalities. This is what we call “masking,” and it’s a bit like trying to find a snowflake in a snowstorm!
Slightly Higher Risk: Women with dense breasts have a somewhat higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to those with less dense tissue. While the why isn’t fully clear, it’s definitely something to keep in mind when planning your screenings.
The Need for Extra Screening: Because of the challenges dense tissue presents, additional imaging—like ultrasound or MRI—might be recommended to get a clearer picture and catch any sneaky spots that a standard mammogram might miss.
Here’s the Good News: New York’s Got Your Back!
In New York, you’re in good hands! There’s a law here that requires doctors and facilities to let you know if your mammogram shows you have dense breasts. Why is this a big deal? Knowing your breast density is crucial because it can affect how mammograms are interpreted, and it helps you and your healthcare provider create the best plan for you. And there’s even more good news!
No Cost-Sharing for Extra Screening!
If your insurance is covered by this law, you don’t have to worry about out-of-pocket costs for breast cancer screening and diagnostic imaging. That means no copayments, no coinsurance, and no hitting your deductible—if you stay in-network. So, you can focus on what matters most: your health!
What Services Does the Law Cover?
New York’s law removes cost-sharing for a range of breast cancer screenings, including:
- A single, baseline mammogram for individuals 35 to 39 years old.
- Annual mammograms for those 40 and older.
- Mammograms for anyone at increased risk of breast cancer, like those with a personal or family history of breast cancer, when recommended by a doctor.
And it’s not just standard mammograms. The law also covers diagnostic mammograms, breast ultrasounds, and breast MRIs when they’re needed for breast cancer detection. This is a game-changer for women with dense breasts, making advanced screening options more accessible and affordable.
How to Take Charge of Your Breast Health
Ask About Your Density Status: At Akira, we’re all about keeping you in the loop. We provide breast density information as part of your mammogram results, so don’t hesitate to ask if you have any questions!
Consider Additional Imaging: Depending on your breast density and personal risk factors, your doctor might recommend some extra imaging, like 3D mammography, ultrasound, or MRI, for a clearer view.
Stay Consistent with Screenings: Regular mammograms are still a must—even with dense breasts. Following your doctor’s recommendations and staying up-to-date with screenings is key to early detection.
Why Choose Akira?
When it comes to your breast health, Akira Medical Imaging + Wellness has your back. We offer cutting-edge imaging technology and a patient-centered approach that puts you first. Whether it’s your first mammogram or you’re navigating the world of dense breast tissue, we’re here to make sure you have the best experience possible—because your well-being is our top priority!
Let’s Do This—Together!
Understanding breast density and the laws designed to protect your health is a great start. If you have dense breasts, know that we’re here to help. Ready to take the next step? Schedule your mammogram with Akira Medical Imaging + Wellness today, and let’s make your health journey as smooth and stress-free as possible!
