IN Malaysia, the incidence of breast cancer has been steadily rising, with statistics indicating that one in 20 women is likely to develop the disease in their lifetime. Early detection through screening is the most effective way to prevent late-stage diagnosis.
The most commonly used methods for breast cancer screening are mammograms, ultrasounds and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). To optimise the screening process, it is crucial to understand breast tissue type as it affects imaging results. According to the Breast Imaging Reporting & Data System, breasts are categorised into four density levels, which are determined via mammogram. These categories are almost entirely fatty, scattered areas of fibroglandular density, heterogeneously dense and extremely dense.