Answer:
Digital mammograms do seem to improve the cancer detection rate in younger women with
dense breasts. The radiation dose is not necessarily lower, but images can be manipulated
to overcome some of the problem related to density, are easily compared annually,
and CAD--Computer Aided Detection—software can be used.
So, yes you should be getting digital mammograms at an ACR-accredited facility. Unfortunately, there is no good evidence that additional screening tests such as ultrasound, MRI, or digital tomosynthesis improves detection rates, except in very high risk women.
And speaking of risk, if your mother was diagnosed with breast cancer at or before age 45 (or had two cancers), or you have another maternal relative with breast cancer, or a relative with ovarian cancer, you should be referred to a genetics counselor. She can provide further risk assessment and, if needed, may suggest risk reduction strategies.
So, yes you should be getting digital mammograms at an ACR-accredited facility. Unfortunately, there is no good evidence that additional screening tests such as ultrasound, MRI, or digital tomosynthesis improves detection rates, except in very high risk women.
And speaking of risk, if your mother was diagnosed with breast cancer at or before age 45 (or had two cancers), or you have another maternal relative with breast cancer, or a relative with ovarian cancer, you should be referred to a genetics counselor. She can provide further risk assessment and, if needed, may suggest risk reduction strategies.