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As World Dense Breast Day approaches, it’s time to focus on an often-overlooked health issue: breast density. Breast density plays a vital role in breast cancer detection, yet many women remain unaware of its significance. Thanks to the new National Dense Breast Disclosure Law, effective September 10, 2024, this is set to change. As this landmark law seeks to bridge the gap in breast cancer detection, organizations like the American Breast Cancer Foundation (ABCF) and Are You Dense, Inc. are leading the charge to ensure women are informed and empowered.

ABCF and Are You Dense: A Partnership for Change

The American Breast Cancer Foundation (ABCF), in support of the efforts of Are You Dense, Inc., is working to raise awareness and provide resources about breast density. These efforts ensure that women, especially those in underserved communities, are informed and empowered to protect their health.

What is Breast Density?

Breast density plays a critical role in breast cancer detection, yet many women remain unaware of its significance. Breast density refers to the relative amount of glandular tissue, fibrous connective tissue, and fatty tissue in the breast, as seen on a mammogram. Dense breasts contain higher amounts of glandular and fibrous tissue, which can make it more difficult to detect cancer through standard screenings. Nearly half of all women aged 40 and older who undergo mammograms are found to have dense breast tissue, but too often, this crucial information isn’t shared with them. National Dense Breast Disclosure Law now ensures that women receive this essential knowledge after their mammograms, empowering them to take informed steps in protecting their health.

Various factors, including genetics, can influence breast density. Additional factors, such as using menopausal hormone therapy or having a low body mass index, can increase breast density while aging and having children tend to lower it. By understanding these influences and being informed about breast density, women can take proactive steps in managing their health and ensuring early cancer detection.

Testing Options Available

If you’ve been informed that you have dense breasts, understanding the next steps is key to protecting your health. Since dense breast tissue can make it more challenging to detect cancer through standard mammograms, additional screenings may be necessary to get a clearer picture. One option is a breast ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create detailed images of your breast tissue. This is particularly helpful for identifying any abnormalities that might be missed by a traditional mammogram. Another option is a breast MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), which uses powerful magnets and radio waves to produce highly detailed images. MRIs are especially useful for women at a higher risk for breast cancer or those whose dense tissue makes it difficult to see potential issues on a mammogram. Additionally, there is 3D mammography (also called tomosynthesis), which captures multiple images of the breast from different angles, providing a more comprehensive view and improving detection in women with dense breasts.

It’s important to remember that the right test for you will depend on factors such as your personal risk, family history, and overall health. Speak with your doctor to determine which screening is most appropriate for you. By staying informed and asking the right questions, you’re taking an important step toward safeguarding your health and ensuring early detection.

A Major Step Forward

This groundbreaking legislation, led by the state of Connecticut, represents a significant victory for women’s health through advocacy for breast density disclosure. The state’s early adoption of these laws, championed by figures like Rep. Dr. William Pizzuto and Senator Rosa DeLauro, set the stage for this nationwide mandate. The law aims to empower women by giving them the information they need to take action early, setting an example for the rest of the country to follow.

More Work to Be Done

While the new law is a significant step, it doesn’t address insurance coverage for additional screenings needed by women with dense breasts. Efforts like the Find it Early Act are working to ensure these vital tests are covered, continuing the fight for women’s access to necessary healthcare.

Take Action on World Dense Breast Day

As World Dense Breast Day approaches, now is the time to take charge of your health. Schedule a mammogram and ask your doctor about your breast density. Awareness is the first step in preventing breast cancer, and through continued advocacy, we can ensure that every woman is informed.

Breast density matters, as does knowing how to protect your health now and for the future. With this new legislation and ongoing efforts by organizations like ABCF and Are You Dense, Inc., we are progressing toward a future where women are informed and empowered to make life saving decisions. Join us in the fight to advance women’s health!

For more information on breast health and how to get involved, click here.