Kevin Hughes on Dense Breast Tissue and Cancer Risk

Video

Kevin Hughes, MD, breast surgeon at Massachusetts General Hospital, discusses misconceptions regarding dense breast tissue and risk for breast cancer.

Kevin Hughes, MD, breast surgeon at Massachusetts General Hospital, discusses misconceptions regarding dense breast tissue and risk for breast cancer.

Hughes says that women who are told that they have dense breast tissue should not panic. Dense breast tissue is something seen in about half of women, with weight and age playing a role, and does not increase chances of getting breast cancer.

While dense breasts may hide breast cancer on a mammogram, Hughes emphasizes that even that situation is becoming more unlikely, especially with new technological advancements like 3-D mammograms. So before women with dense breasts look to further testing, such as MRIs, they should consult with their doctors regarding their risks and then create a screening plan.

Recent Videos
Screenshot of Kiah Purcell, MSN, AGPCNP-BC, in a video call with the frame surrounded by an Oncology Nursing News branded border
Photo of Jamie Carroll, APRN, CNP, MSN, from a video call with an Oncology Nursing News branded border around the frame
5 experts in this video
Image of Kayle Freeman, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, in a video call with an Oncology Nursing News border around the frame
Image of Jessie Desir, PhD, RN, AMB-BC, OCN, in a video call with a blue and gold Oncology Nursing News border surrounding the frame.
Image of Pattie Jakel, MN, RN, AOCN, in front of a blue watercolor Oncology Nursing News backdrop
Related Content