screening if I have dense breasts ?
Not necessarily . It is recommended that women with dense breasts talk to their doctors about breast density and how it affects their personal risk of breast cancer . Other imaging tests such as MRI , contrast-enhanced mammography or screening breast ultrasound might help find cancers in some people with dense tissue , but these also may require the patient to undergo a work-up of other findings and at times additional biopsies that may turn out to be benign . What should I do if I ’ m told I have dense breasts ? First , don ' t panic . Dense breasts are normal and common . Here are some steps to consider If you are told that you have dense breasts :
• Make it a point of discussion with your doctor at your next annual exam to help you figure out the right course of action for seeking supplemental screening — weighing your overall breast cancer risk level , personal preferences , the availability and cost of additional imaging .
• Ask about the potential benefits and drawbacks of the additional screening tests as well as their availability .
• Discuss your overall breast cancer risk with your health care provider starting at age 25 . Factors like family history and previous biopsies are important .
Will insurance cover additional screening ?
Coverage varies by state and insurance plan . Some states , including Kentucky , require coverage for supplemental screening . Discuss potential costs with your health care provider and insurance company .
Remember , these new guidelines are about empowering you with information . They ’ re not meant to cause alarm , but to help you and your health care provider make informed decisions about your breast health . If you are of average risk , annual mammograms starting at age 40 are important for early detection of breast cancer .
My Saved Life
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Susan Alderdice REALTOR salderdice @ lakehomes . com ( 606 ) 305-1226
The Susan Alderdice Team
October 2024 SEKY - Southeast Kentucky Life • 25