Why Ultrasound Is the Better Choice for Women with Dense Breasts

Why Ultrasound Is a Better Alternative to Mammograms for Women with Dense Breasts: Understanding the Federal Mandate on Density Letters

Under a federal mandate passed in 2019, women in the U.S. are now required as of Sept ‘24 to be notified if they have dense breast tissue following their mammogram. The Breast Density Notification Act helps raise awareness about how dense tissue can make it harder for mammograms to detect tumors. While this law helps inform women, it also highlights the need for better screening options, such as ultrasound, especially for women with dense breasts.

The Federal Mandate and Density Letters

The density letter explains that dense breast tissue can obscure tumors, making it harder for mammograms to spot cancer. The letter encourages women to talk to their healthcare provider about additional screening options. While informative, this letter does not offer a solution. That's where ultrasound becomes a valuable alternative.

Why Ultrasound is a Better Screening Option

1. Improved Tumor Detection: Ultrasound is more effective than mammograms for detecting cancer in dense tissue. It uses sound waves, so it doesn’t have the same limitations in distinguishing between dense tissue and tumors.
   
   
2. No Radiation: Unlike mammograms, ultrasound does not expose patients to radiation, making it safer, especially for younger women or those concerned about repeated radiation exposure.
   
   
3. Complementary Screening Tool: Ultrasound can be used alongside mammograms to provide a more accurate overall picture of breast health, helping to clarify whether an abnormality is a tumor or dense tissue.
   
   
4. Earlier Detection: Ultrasound can identify tumors hidden in dense tissue, allowing for earlier detection of breast cancer, which is critical for better treatment outcomes.
   
   

Why Choose Eve Wellness?

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Eve Wellness stands out by using advanced technologies like the GE Invenia ABUS, an automated 3D breast ultrasound system that offers high-quality imaging for detecting cancers in dense breasts. Learn more about this cutting-edge technology here.

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Additionally, Eve Wellness uses AI technology to enhance breast cancer screening. Find out more about how artificial intelligence improves detection here.

Conclusion

The federal mandate to send density letters educates women about the limitations of mammograms for detecting cancer in dense breast tissue. However, ultrasound provides a superior alternative by offering better tumor detection, no radiation exposure, and earlier identification of cancers. If you’ve received a density letter, talk to your healthcare provider about whether an ultrasound might be a better screening option.

Learn more about breast cancer screening with ultrasound:

• FDA Update on Mammography Regulations
• American Cancer Society on Ultrasound
• Why Ultrasound at Eve Wellness
• GE Health Invenia ABUS Case Study