Mayo concerns over form of breast cancer 'not always detectable in mammograms'

There is a need for more awareness about a form of breast cancer in women that is not always easily detectable in mammograms, according to Mayo Aontú Councillor Deirdre Lawless.

The Knock-based representative elaborated: “Approximately 35% of women aged from 40 to 74 are described as having very dense breasts with up to 50% of women in Ireland having dense breasts.

"Breast density is something that is not known widely known about and women with dense breasts are generally more susceptible to getting a form of cancer that can lie unseen for years.

"Breast Check is fabulous and I would urge every woman to avail of her regular screenings.

"However, mammograms don’t pick up on absolutely everything.

"Breast Check does not currently record breast density, and I believe this is something that should be looked at.

"Women try and do everything right, they check their breasts, they go for their mammograms, but certain cancers are very hard to pick up on.

"I really believe that we need more awareness on this as information and knowledge is key.

"Women need to be informed if they have dense breasts. This is important as it can inform their choices around what additional imaging tests to take.

"An Uutrasound or MRI is more likely to detect the form of breast cancer seen in women with dense breasts, and if women know about the increased risks this can pose, then they at least would be in a position to ask for further imaging that could impact positively on their outcomes.”