Question posted by PJ

I had a general health screening to check my breasts, I filled-in a history questionnaire and the medical centre performed a Mammogram screening procedure. The Radiology Report stated "Dense breasts are noted, otherwise normal appearances". I am aged 40 – 49 years old and there is no staff or doctor went through the report and nobody briefed me anything about the benefit and limitation of Mammogram screening.

May I know what is the general standard practice for this age group with dense breasts?

Answered by Dr Beh Sok Yuen, Consultant, Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS)

Hi PJ

You are absolutely right that mammography is less effective in identifying cancers in women under 50 years old because their breast tissue tends to be denser in pre–premenopausal women. I would encourage ladies at your age to discuss with the doctor about the potential benefits, limitations and harms associated with screening mammography. They should base screening mammography decisions on the benefits and harms of screening, as well as on the individual’s preference and breast cancer risk profile. If screening is to be performed, screening mammogram should be done annually if you are not deemed to be a high risk profile.