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Dense Breasts: Mammograms Miss Cancers
6 Oct
Summary
- Dense breasts increase cancer risk and obscure detection on mammograms.
- Newer screenings like ultrasounds can find cancers missed by mammograms.
- Advocates urge women to be proactive about breast cancer screenings.
Breast density is a critical factor in breast cancer detection, often making mammograms less effective and increasing a woman's risk. This was a key focus during Breast Cancer Awareness Month at the fifth annual Paint the Lake Pink Walk in the northwest suburbs. The event celebrated survivors and promoted crucial conversations about breast health.
Attendees shared powerful stories of resilience. Ilanna Florenza, who found four tumors herself, urged others to trust their instincts and speak up if they feel something is wrong. Dr. Rosen emphasized the higher cure rates when cancer is diagnosed early, whether through screening or symptoms, and stressed the importance of mammograms.
This year's event also featured posters illustrating cancers missed by mammography. Some women, like Kerri Lanum, pursued additional screenings like automated breast ultrasounds despite insurance concerns, leading to early cancer detection and remission. Sally Kutsor, a 12-year thriver, advises knowing your breast density, categorized from A to D, with C and D considered dense.
