Dr. April Spencer Explains Breast Density: FDA Law Requires Reporting of Density on Mammograms

As of September 10, 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has implemented new regulations requiring that mammogram reports include information about breast density. This is part of the FDA’s updates to the Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA). The new law mandates that facilities conducting mammograms must provide patients with clear information regarding their breast density status.

Dr. April Spencer explains how breast density is classified into four categories, ranging from almost entirely fatty breasts to extremely dense breasts. Dense breast tissue can make it more difficult to detect cancers on a mammogram and is associated with a slightly higher risk of developing breast cancer. The law aims to ensure that women with dense breasts are informed about their condition so they can make more informed decisions regarding additional screening options, such as ultrasound or MRI.

The intent is to improve breast cancer detection and give patients more control over their health care by making them aware of a key factor that affects mammogram accuracy and breast cancer risk.

Dr. April Spencer elaborates on how breast density refers to the amount of fibroglandular tissue present. Dense breasts on mammogram have mostly glandular tissue, which appears white with just a little fatty tissue with has a more gray/black appearance . A woman’s breast density changes
through her lifetime. Breast density can only be diagnosed on mammogram and it’s a normal part of breast anatomy that usually decreases with age. Increased breast density can be associated with an increased risk of breast cancer so get your annual screening mammogram and if you get a call back, go back..Early detection means better protection! Dr. April Spencer says, Let’s Treat it, Beat it, Move On! Like & Share if you think this video will help someone.