Breast Density Increases Cancer Risk

Researchers have known for over 30 years, from the results of over 50 studies that women having dense breast tissue are at increased risk of developing breast cancer. Breast density combined with the use of hormone replacement for menopausal therapy has been found to increase breast cancer risk 24 percent.

According to Kathleen Doheny, a reporter for HealthDay News, the most recent advancements in studies of breast density and, its correlation to breast cancer risks, will be presented April 21 and 22 at the American Association of Cancer Research meeting in Washington, DC.

Breast density is usually defined by the amount of penetration that x-rays can make in breast tissue. Normal fatty breast tissue is translucent and allows a good image of the breast and any abnormalities. Dense breast tissue appears white on x-rays, as do tumors, making diagnosis difficult.

Breast density is usually found to decrease as women age
Exact standards for measuring breast density and, for comparing specific density levels to higher cancer risk, have yet to be set. Researchers into the relationship are convinced that breast density may be used as a reliable predictor of a woman’s risk for developing breast cancer once uniform standards are established.