Why Knowing Your Breast Density Matters with Leslie Ferris Yerger: Clear Voices Of Hope

Leslie Ferris Yerger’s Story & Critical Insight on Why Breast Density Matters

We’re back with a powerful new series, Clear Voices Of Hope and if you care about women’s health—or your own—this is an episode you can’t miss.

This week, Lisa Malia sits down with Leslie Ferris Yerger, CEO and founder of My Density Matters, and a tireless advocate for early breast cancer detection and women’s empowerment. Together, they share their deeply personal stories as survivors, illuminate the challenges around breast density, and offer practical actions every woman can take right now.

Here’s what you’ll find in this episode:

🎙 Why Breast Density Matters—And What Most of Us Don’t Know

• Leslie was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer just two months after an all-clear mammogram and ultrasound. The reason? Dense breast tissue can mask cancer, making early detection incredibly difficult through standard screenings.

• Lisa’s story echoes this reality—breast density can significantly impact diagnosis, and most of us have never been told this by our doctors.

💡 Practical Steps to Advocate for Your Health

• Start at 25: The American College of Radiology recommends all women, especially those at higher risk, get a breast cancer risk assessment by age 25.

• When you get a mammogram, read your entire report—don’t just look for “all clear” at the top. Check your breast density, usually listed farther down.

• If you have dense breasts, talk to your doctor about additional screening options like MRI or contrast-enhanced mammography. Don’t settle for being dismissed—keep asking until you get clear answers.

📢 Advocacy & The Power of Grassroots Lisa and Leslie discuss the slow progress of breast density legislation and why grassroots advocacy is essential. Change happens faster when we support each other, share experiences, and push for better standards in care.

✨ Leslie’s Story of Resilience Leslie shares her ongoing journey with stage four breast cancer, her current treatment, and why she’s committed to ensuring her story is no one else’s. Her daily work with My Density Matters is making a measurable impact, even if she may never meet those she’s helped.

💬 Final Takeaway: “No one’s going to take care of your body like you are. You know your body best—advocate for yourself and for each other.”

Get Involved:

• Join The Task Force or Advisory Board for The Clear Pathways Program

• Follow My Density Matters for updates, educational resources.

• Have these vital conversations! Share this episode and our YouTube Channel with the women in your life.

Thank you for tuning in and for being part of the conversation that saves lives.

With hope and action,

For The Love Of Cups