Dense Breasts: What It Means, Why It Matters, and How to Take Charge

By: Dr. Beverly Huang ND, MSCP

Many women are surprised to learn that they have “dense breasts” after a mammogram — and even more surprised to find out what that really means. Breast density isn’t about how your breasts feel or look; it’s about how they appear on imaging. And understanding it can make all the difference in how you approach screening, hormone therapy, and your overall breast health.

What Dense Breasts Actually Mean

Breast density refers to the amount of fibroglandular tissue (the milk glands and supportive tissue) compared to fatty tissue seen on a mammogram. Dense tissue appears white on imaging — and so do most tumours — which can make it harder to detect changes or abnormalities.
About 40–50% of women over 40 have dense breasts. Density often decreases naturally after menopause, but some women — especially those using hormone therapy — continue to have denser tissue.

Why Breast Density Matters

Having dense breasts doesn’t mean something is wrong, but it does change the conversation. Dense tissue can both make it harder for a mammogram to “see” through, and it’s associated with a modestly increased risk of developing breast cancer. That’s why breast density isn’t something to fear — it’s something to know. It’s an opportunity to personalize your screening and prevention plan.

How Hormones and Age Play a Role

Hormones influence breast tissue. Before menopause, higher estrogen and progesterone levels keep the tissue more glandular and firm. As these hormones decline, many women notice their breasts feel less dense. Hormone therapy can maintain some of that density — but this doesn’t automatically translate to higher cancer risk. The key factors are the type, dose, and timing of therapy, along with family history, lifestyle, and overall health.

Screening in Alberta: What You Should Know

In Alberta, women aged 45 to 74 can self-refer for a screening mammogram every two years through Alberta Health Services’ Screen Test program. You don’t need a doctor’s referral — simply call 1-800-667-0604 to book.
If you’re 40 to 44, you can still have a mammogram, but you’ll need a requisition from your healthcare provider.

When you go for your appointment, ask for your breast density category. Alberta now includes this information in your screening results. If you’re told you have “dense breasts,” ask whether you might benefit from additional imaging such as digital breast tomosynthesis (3D mammography), breast ultrasound, or MRI — especially if you have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer.

Supporting Breast Health Naturally

Breast health isn’t just about screening — it’s about how you care for your body every day.

• Keep moving: regular exercise lowers estrogen dominance and inflammation.

• Focus on fibre and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, kale, and cauliflower to support healthy estrogen metabolism.

• Maintain a balanced body composition and stable blood sugar.

• Limit alcohol — even one drink per day can slightly increase risk.

• Prioritize sleep and stress management — your cortisol curve impacts breast tissue and hormone balance.

Be Breast Informed

Knowing your breast density is a power move. It’s not a reason for worry; it’s a call to action. When you understand your risk factors and your body, you can make confident, informed choices — about screening, hormone therapy, and prevention.
Your breasts deserve proactive care, not passive observation. Ask questions, know your numbers, and advocate for imaging that reflects your unique physiology. Because when it comes to breast health, awareness is protection.