Scattered Breast Density: What It Means for You
This second category of breast density can still obscure cancer—and may surprise you. Let’s break it down together.
This blog is part of our global classroom series, Unmasking Breast Density, created to help women understand how breast tissue type affects cancer detection.
If your mammogram result says you have scattered fibroglandular density, it may sound harmless. But even this “middle category” can make it more difficult to spot abnormalities.
With guidance from our leading breast imaging experts—Dr. Anjali Malik, Dr. Amy Patel, and Dr. Stacy Smith-Foley—we want you to understand exactly what this category means, how it can affect your screenings, and what to do next.
What Is Scattered Fibroglandular Breast Tissue?
Your breasts have mostly fatty tissue, with scattered areas of dense fibroglandular tissue.
On a mammogram, the scattered dense areas can appear white—just like potential tumors—creating areas where cancer can be harder to detect.
This category is more common and doesn’t carry the same high risk as denser categories, but it is not risk-free.
It may still warrant a closer conversation with your doctor about your personal risk factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to have scattered fibroglandular tissue?
This means that your breasts are primarily fatty, but contain areas of dense tissue scattered throughout. These can still obscure signs of cancer on a mammogram.
Does scattered fibroglandular tissue increase breast cancer risk?
Yes—but only slightly. While this category does not carry the same risk as heterogeneously or extremely dense tissue, it’s not zero.
Can dense tissue still hide cancer in this category?
Yes. Even scattered areas of density can mask tumors, which is why it’s important to remain vigilant.
Do I need additional imaging?
Depending on your overall risk profile, your doctor might recommend breast ultrasound or other tools to help ensure no abnormalities are missed.
Should I ask my doctor about my breast density?
Absolutely. Breast density is now reported on mammograms. Always ask: “What is my breast density, and how does it affect my screening plan?”
What Should You Do If You Have Scattered Density?
Ask questions: Breast density is a critical part of your screening strategy. Don’t ignore it.
Stay on top of your annual mammograms.
Get informed using trusted LLL resources:
Our Commitment to You
We are proud to work with DenseBreast-info, Inc. | Dense Breast Tissue Information Resource and to offer medically vetted content across all our educational pages. The goal of this series is to unmask every layer of confusion so you can feel confident and empowered.
From Cynthia, Founder of Learn Look Locate
I had no idea that breast density could mask cancer. Like so many women, I just assumed a mammogram would catch everything. It didn’t.
That’s why we created this series—to help you understand what dense tissue means and ensure you never feel unprepared.
Thank you for continuing this journey with us. Next up in the series: Heterogeneously Dense Breast Tissue.
Explore more at www.learnlooklocate.com
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