Breast Density:
What It Means &
What to Do Next
Breast density is a normal finding on a mammogram. Knowing your density can help you understand your screening results and talk with your GP about what is right for you.
What is breast density?
Breast density describes what your breast tissue looks like on a mammogram.
- Dense tissue (glandular and fibrous tissue) shows up white on a mammogram.
- Fatty tissue shows up dark on a mammogram.
Density is not something you can feel by touch. It is reported by the radiologist who reads your mammogram.
Key point: Dense breasts are common and normal.
Why does breast density matter?
There are two main reasons:
- Dense tissue can hide cancers on a mammogram.
Dense tissue and cancers can both appear white on a mammogram, while fatty tissue appears dark. This “masking effect” can make cancers harder to see in dense breasts - like looking for a snowball in a snowstorm.
- Dense breasts carry a modestly higher risk.
Women with very dense breasts have a somewhat higher risk of developing breast cancer compared with women with mostly fatty breasts. Density is only one of many risk factors, alongside age, family history and lifestyle factors.
Density is not something you can feel by touch. It is reported by the radiologist who reads your mammogram.
Remember: Having dense breasts does not mean you will get breast cancer. It means mammograms may be a little less sensitive and your risk is somewhat higher.
Common questions
Can I change my breast density?
Density is largely determined by genetics, age and hormones. It tends to decrease with age, particularly after menopause. Hormone therapy (HRT) can increase density. You can’t meaningfully change density through diet or exercise.
Does having dense breasts mean I’ll get breast cancer?
No. Most women with dense breasts will never develop breast cancer. It simply means your risk is somewhat higher and mammograms may be slightly less sensitive for you.
Should I still have mammograms if I have dense breasts?
Yes, absolutely. Mammograms still detect many cancers in dense breasts, and remain the best-evidenced screening test for reducing breast cancer deaths. Do not skip screening because of density.
Will I be told my breast density?
Reporting practices vary across Australia. Some BreastScreen services and private radiology clinics now routinely report density; others do not. If you’d like to know your density, ask when you book your mammogram or speak with your GP.
Do I need extra tests?
Some women with dense breasts, particularly those with other risk factors, may benefit from supplementary imaging such as ultrasound or MRI. These have benefits and drawbacks (including false positives), so discuss what’s appropriate for you with your doctor.
What should I do next?
- Keep having regular mammograms - every two years through BreastScreen Australia (free for women 40 and over; women 50-74 are actively invited).
- Ask about your breast density if you’d like to know it.
- Talk to your GP about your overall breast cancer risk, especially if you have dense breasts plus other risk factors such as strong family history.
- Stay breast aware - know the normal look and feel of your breasts and report any changes to your GP promptly, regardless of your density or when your last mammogram was.
Changes to watch for
See your GP without delay if you notice any of the following:
- A new lump or lumpiness
- A change in breast size or shape
- Nipple discharge, inversion or crusting
- Skin dimpling, puckering or redness
- Persistent, unusual breast pain
Where to get more information or support
- BreastScreen Australia: 13 20 50
- Cancer Council: 13 11 20
- Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA): 1800 500 258
- Your GP - for personalised advice about your risk and screening options
Dense breasts are common and normal - but knowing your density helps you make informed choices about your breast health.
If you have recently been diagnosed with breast cancer or would like a specialist opinion, please speak with your GP about obtaining a referral to see Dr Gault at Gault Surgery. Our caring team, including a dedicated breast care nurse, is here to support and guide you throughout your care.
To make an appointment:
Phone: 5539 3999
Address: Suite 11, Pindara Place, 13 Carrara Street, Benowa QLD 4217