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Concerns about Breast Cancer Family History Questions on genetics, family history & breast cancer. |
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| Asked | Publicly Submitted Question | ||
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| 2/11/2011 | I was dx'd in 2005 with a 1.2 cm IDC, ER+/PR+/Her2- at age 50. At the time I had had a lot of cysts, and very dense breasts. Now, my younger sister (who is 48) has a lot of cysts and very dense breasts, and she is very worried that she will also get breast cancer. I am BRCA1/BRCA2 negative, and we have no history of breast cancer in the family (although my grandfather's mother MIGHT have had bc - we're not sure). Anyway, to what extent are dense cystic breasts associated with breast cancer? Of course, I keep telling her that the best thing is early detection as I am fine now, and she is getting 6-month mammo, ultrasound or MRI scans. So - I know she's OK but I don't know what to tell her about her breasts being cysty and dense like mine. thanks.... | ||
| Replied | JHU's Breast Center Reply | ||
| 2/11/2011 | rarely. however density can block the view of things behind it if it is high level of density. that said, she would be sure to have a breast imaging radiologist scheduling reading her mammos and she should inquire if she needs periodically a breast MRI. MRI is not a substitute for mammogram BTW. | ||
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