What Does It Mean To Have Dense Breasts?

Here at Melhor com Saúde, we have talked many times about  the importance of having periodic gynecological exams. One of the goals of these diagnostic tests is to identify so-called “dense breasts”.

Well then, what does this term mean? Dense breasts contain less fatty tissue and more glandular tissue, and are generally at increased risk of developing cancer.

It should be clarified, first of all, that having dense breasts does not mean that we are going to have a tumor with a 100% probability at all.

We have a higher risk, and this warns us that we need to undergo more periodic evaluations, which will help us detect any problems and signs of tumors.

According to the Journal of the National Cancer , this trait is a factor that all women need to control through medical examinations. Furthermore, it is important to avoid this problem by improving our lifestyle habits from an early age.

Let’s explain.

Risks related to dense breasts

First of all, it should be noted that, at first glance, we don’t know if our breasts are denser than normal or not. From the age of 40, it is recommended that we submit to an annual review, and later, when indicated.

There are times when a mammogram cannot be seen easily, precisely because of the high density of the breast  and because of a greater presence of glandular tissue. This is the time to start taking action.

As we indicated earlier, it is not to be alarmed, but to be prudent and follow each expert’s guidance to monitor the health of our breasts at all times. And, above all, it ‘s important to prevent.

According to William Barlow, from the “Centre for Research on Cancer and Biostatistics” in Seattle, United States, for a breast to  become denser than normal, it will depend on the amount of fat and fibroglandular tissue of the woman.

When we’re young, breasts are much more fibrous, but as we age, fatty tissue replaces fibroglandular tissue. And we must submit to more tests.

It should also be noted that some dense breasts make it more difficult to identify a possible tumor in one of the breasts. Diagnostic images appear darker and make it more difficult to identify any tissue abnormality.

It is for this reason that specialists, in these cases, complement the mammography with an ultrasound. In this exam, the diagnosis is more accurate.

Risks of developing dense breasts

1. Menopause:  Dense breasts are more common in postmenopausal women, who are also overweight and have a higher body mass index.
2. Genetic component:  As in breast cancer, developing dense breasts also has a genetic component. So if you have a history of dense breasts or breast cancer in your family, don’t hesitate to have regular checkups. Information and prevention save thousands of lives every year!

Can we prevent the development of dense breasts?

According to doctors, one way to avoid this disease is through hormone replacement therapy from menopause, especially if there is a genetic component.

At the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, USA), a trial of hormone therapy was performed on more than 7,000 women with dense breasts.

While it’s true that just having monthly checkups prevents the risk of developing cancer, hormone therapy has been shown to be helpful in many cases ( not all, but a high percentage).

However, to reduce the risk “ as far as possible” and avoid developing dense breasts in the future, it is vital that you keep this information in mind:

• Don’t forget your family history: if your mother, grandmother, aunt or sister has suffered from breast cancer, it is important to have regular checkups.
• Do not smoke.
• Maintain a proper weight for your height and age. Above all, avoid being overweight, especially when you reach menopause.

• Avoid high-fat foods, white sugar, refined flour and salt. They are toxic and very dangerous for our bodies.
• Eat fresh fruits and vegetables, especially raw. In other words, avoid supermarket juices, and choose a whole apple for your breakfast instead of the classic toast with jam. When preparing salads, eat some raw vegetables, such as spinach, small pieces of onion, tomatoes, etc.
• Avoid pre-cooked foods and get used to eating fresh things. Also remember that it is best to schedule 5 meals a day;  no excesses at lunch or dinner.
• Drink lots of fluids.
• Exercise is essential in everyday life to reduce the risk of dense breasts. Every day, for an hour and a half, do aerobic exercise.

• From age 40, schedule an annual mammogram. Visit your gynecologist and, if you have a family history, as mentioned before , schedule more regular appointments with your doctor to have better control and prevention.

Keep in mind that, in addition to performing diagnostic tests such as ERM (magnetic resonance examination), it is important that we complement it with ultrasound. If you have dense breasts, this test is safer to identify possible tumors.

Remember, prevention is always the most important.