Updated mammogram guidelines could help allow better assessment of exams

(CNN) – According to the CDC, about one in eight women will develop breast cancer in her life.

Now, the FDA is updating its regulations surrounding mammograms, which are x-ray examinations of the breast that doctors use to screen for breast cancer.

One of the key changes will require mammography facilities to notify patients about their breast density.

Dense breast tissue, which is composed of more fibro-glandular than fatty tissue, is a normal and common finding that occurs in about half of women undergoing mammograms.

However, the extra glandular and fibrous tissue can make tumors more difficult to detect on mammograms.

Many patients don’t realize having dense breasts is a significant risk factor for getting breast cancer.

Having dense breasts has been associated with up to four times higher risk of developing breast cancer.

The FDA says these new regulations will help doctors better assess and categorize mammograms.

This is the first update to the regulations in 20 years.