Why Dense Breasts May Need More Than a Mammogram
Why Dense Breasts May Need More Than a Mammogram
This October, for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, one of Surrey’s leading breast surgeons is urging women with higher breast density to consider additional screening — a step that could save hundreds of lives every year.
Ms Katerina Micha, consultant breast surgeon at New Victoria Hospital, in Kingston upon Thames, highlights that women with dense breast tissue face unique challenges when it comes to spotting cancer early. Dense tissue can mask tumours on standard mammograms because both appear white on the scan, making it harder to detect cancer when it is still small and asymptomatic.
In the UK, around 40% of women of screening age (50 to 71 years old) have dense breasts, with about 10% falling into the “very dense” category. This group not only has a higher risk of breast cancer but also reduced accuracy on routine mammograms. Recent research from the University of Cambridge found that enhanced screening for these women could detect an additional 3,500 cancer cases and save 700 lives each year. Reflecting the growing evidence, the UK’s National Screening Committee is currently reviewing whether women with dense breast tissue should be offered extra breast screening appointments. Currently, NHS screening is offered every three years from ages 50 to 71.
Why This Matters for Women in Their 40s
In light of the new findings, Ms Micha believes women in their 40s should also consider independent screening while breast tissue is naturally denser and cancer risk begins to climb.
“The ability to self-refer and self-pay for a mammogram at New Victoria Hospital is a lifeline,” she explains. “Asymptomatic women over 40, who have not had a mammogram in the past year, can take control of their breast health, and feel reassured particularly if they are concerned about their breast cancer risk. For women in their 40s, early detection is absolutely vital, as it dramatically improves outcomes.”
City Living and Breast Cancer Risk
Breast cancer risk isn’t only about biology and genetics — lifestyle also plays a role. A study from the London Breast Institute found that city-dwelling women may face higher risk, possibly due to pollution and chronic stress. Unlike the US, where doctors are legally required to inform patients of breast density after a mammogram, the UK approach is more selective, with recommendations for extra screening only given to women with family history, genetic mutations, or other defi ned risks.
One-Stop Breast Clinic in Surrey
To give women greater peace of mind, New Victoria Hospital offers One-Stop Breast Clinics that they can also access without a GP referral. Each appointment includes a triple assessment: a clinical breast examination, mammogram and/or ultrasound, and, if necessary, further tests such as a biopsy. The clinic also offers advanced imaging like tomosynthesis (3D mammography), which is particularly effective for dense breast tissue. The Hospital aims to provide imaging results on the same day of your appointment, and pathology results within 48–72 hours.
“When you find a lump, in most cases it isn’t cancer,” reassures Ms Micha. “But every change should be checked. Rapid access to accurate results helps reduce anxiety and give you peace of mind.”
The Importance of Self-Checks
Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon Ms Chloe Constantinou who is also based at New Victoria Hospital, stresses the importance of self-examination, recommending a monthly routine.
“Become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel,” she says. “If you notice anything new — even something subtle — get it checked by a specialist.”
Ms Micha adds: “Use a well-lit mirror and check for visible changes in size, shape, or symmetry. Feel both breasts, including the area towards the underarm, comparing your findings to last month.”
Key Warning Signs Not to Ignore
- Lumps, swelling, or thickened tissue
- Skin dimpling resembling “orange peel”
- Inverted or newly changed nipples
- Rash, itching, or unusual discharge (especially bloodstained)
- Swelling in the armpit
Early Detection Saves Lives
Early diagnosis not only improves survival rates but also means less invasive surgery options. Today, 76% of women diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK live for 10 years or longer, thanks to earlier detection and better treatment options.
“The smaller the cancers we find, the better the chances of breast-conserving surgery, with excellent survival rates,” Ms Micha says.
Early diagnosis improves survival and allows less invasive surgery. Currently, 76% of UK women with breast cancer survive 10 years or more due to earlier detection and better treatments. Ms Micha highlights that smaller cancers lead to more breast-conserving surgery and better outcomes. Women in Surrey and beyond are urged not to wait for symptoms; those with dense breasts or family history should consider extra screening. Knowledge and vigilance remain our best defense against breast cancer.
