Dense Breasts Should not be a Risk Factor

All too often, key aspects of women’s breast health get neglected. Few researchers and professionals prioritize developing truly patient-centric imaging methods. We know that having dense breast tissue can make it harder for doctors to detect breast cancers on mammograms, leading to an alarming amount of cancers being missed when using mammography alone. We also know that dense breasts are not rare - approximately 50% of women have dense breasts, and we know that women with dense breasts also have a higher risk of developing breast cancer than women without dense breasts. Why do limitations of mammography still exist? 

Our Koning Vera Breast CT device uses computed tomography to maximize accuracy for all women, regardless of the type of breast tissue. According to a 2021 study by O'Connell, Avice M et al., cone-beam breast computed tomography can be revolutionary in overcoming the limitations of current imaging for dense breast tissue and overlapping structures. As encouraged by O’Connell, Avice M et al., breast imagers must openly acknowledge the shortcomings of current technologies while preparing for a paradigm shift in the breast imaging industry, from mammograms to dedicated breast CT scans.

Beyond the crucial matter of density, our Koning Vera Breast CT also overcomes painful compression. Research shows that women find cone-beam breast CT much more comfortable than mammography, and the numbers speak for themselves: During a 2022 HealthyWomen survey, 1 in 6 women reported that discomfort has deterred them from getting a mammogram as recommended. By eliminating compression and developing new technologies that are just as effective at screening dense breasts, we get closer to a reality of far fewer false negatives. Most importantly, by developing technology that keeps women healthy without trade-offs, we can equalize early detection for the first time.

Sources: 

 “Cone-Beam Breast Computed Tomography: Time for a New Paradigm in Breast Imaging.” Journal of clinical medicine vol. 10,21 5135. 31 Oct. 2021, doi:10.3390/jcm10215135

Li, Haijie et al. “Comparison of comfort between cone beam breast computed tomography and digital mammography.” European journal of radiology vol. 120 (2019): 108674. doi:10.1016/j.ejrad.2019.108674

“Is There Such a Thing As a More Comfortable Mammogram?”, Mar 1, 2022, Campbell County Health