Most frequently asked breast health questions answered
Dr Jasmina Kevric answers your most frequently asked questions
What It Means for Breast Cancer Screening
Breast density is a common and normal finding on mammograms, yet many women are unsure what it actually means.
What is breast density?
Breast density refers to the amount of fibrous and glandular tissue compared with fatty tissue in the breast. Dense breasts are not abnormal but they can affect how breast cancer appears on imaging.
On a mammogram, dense tissue appears white, the same colour as many breast cancers. This can make cancers harder to see and, in some cases, slightly increases breast cancer risk.
How does breast density affect screening?
Breast density can only be determined through imaging, not by touch or self-examination. If you have dense breasts, your doctor may recommend additional imaging such as breast ultrasound or MRI, depending on your personal risk factors.
These decisions are individual and may consider:
Family history of breast cancer
Genetic risk
Previous breast biopsies
Age and hormonal factors
Can breast density change?
Yes. Breast density often decreases with age, menopause, or hormonal changes. It’s not something you can control through lifestyle choices.
Understanding breast density helps reduce uncertainty and anxiety. If you’re unsure what your results mean, a discussion with a breast specialist can provide clarity and reassurance.
Breast Cancer Detection Beyond Mammograms: What’s Changing and Why It Matters
Mammograms remain the gold standard for breast cancer screening but breast imaging is evolving.
New tools in breast cancer detection
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly used to support radiologists when interpreting mammograms. Research suggests AI may help detect subtle changes earlier and reduce false alarms, especially in large screening programs.
Personalised breast screening
Not every woman has the same level of breast cancer risk. Future screening models aim to personalise care by considering factors such as:
Breast density
Family and genetic history
Age and hormonal exposure
This approach may mean different screening tests or intervals for different women.
What about new technologies?
Some emerging technologies are being researched, but not all are ready for clinical use. It’s important to rely on evidence-based screening rather than unproven alternatives.
The future of breast cancer detection lies in combining advanced technology with personalised, compassionate medical care, not replacing clinical judgement, but enhancing it.
Why Breast Health Policy and Prevention Matter for Early Detection
Breast health is shaped by more than individual choices. Public health policy and access to care play a major role in outcomes.
Screening saves lives but access matters
Population-based screening programs help detect breast cancer early, when treatment is most effective. However, not everyone can access these services equally.
Common barriers include:
Geographic distance
Work and caregiving responsibilities
Cultural and language differences
Limited health literacy
Better systems, better outcomes
Clear communication, timely referrals, and equitable screening programs reduce anxiety and improve care. Prevention is not just personal but it’s collective.
Strong breast health systems support early detection, informed decision-making, and better outcomes for the whole community.
Breast Health in Your 20s and 30s: What Younger Women Need to Know
Breast health is important at every age, even though breast cancer is less common in younger women.
What’s normal in younger breasts?
Hormonal changes often cause breast tenderness, lumpiness, or cyclical discomfort. Most breast changes in younger women are benign.
However, any new, persistent, or unusual change should be assessed.
Do younger women need screening?
Routine mammograms are not usually recommended under age 40. Breast ultrasound is often the first imaging test for symptoms in younger women.
Earlier or additional screening may be considered if there is:
A strong family history
Known genetic risk
Previous chest radiation
Building lifelong breast health
Healthy habits established early including regular exercise, limiting alcohol, and maintaining a healthy weight, all support long-term breast health.
Trusting your instincts and seeking assessment early is about reassurance, not alarm.
Lifestyle and Breast Cancer Risk: What the Evidence Really Says
Lifestyle factors influence breast cancer risk — but they’re often misunderstood.
What actually reduces risk?
Strong evidence supports:
Regular physical activity
Limiting alcohol intake
Maintaining a healthy weight after menopause
Not smoking
No single habit prevents breast cancer entirely, and no diagnosis is caused by one behaviour.
Diet, supplements, and myths
There is no proven “superfood” or supplement that prevents breast cancer. Overall dietary patterns matter more than individual nutrients.
Breast self-awareness
Knowing what’s normal for your body is more helpful than strict self-examination routines, which can increase anxiety without improving detection.
Breast health isn’t about perfection or control, it’s about informed choices, early assessment, and evidence-based care.