Which of the following is NOT typically a factor influencing mammography sensitivity?

Mammography sensitivity refers to the ability of the mammography technique to correctly identify the presence of breast cancer when it exists. Factors that significantly influence this sensitivity include age, breast density, and the presence of abnormalities.

Age plays a crucial role because the risk of developing breast cancer increases as women get older, and mammography tends to be more effective in older women whose breast tissue is often less dense compared to younger women. Breast density is another key factor, as denser breast tissue can obscure tumors on mammograms, leading to a higher likelihood of false negatives. The presence of abnormalities, such as calcifications or masses, directly impacts sensitivity since these findings prompt additional imaging or biopsies for further evaluation.

In contrast, while family history of cancer can indicate a higher risk and influence screening recommendations, it does not directly affect the sensitivity of mammography itself. Thus, while it is an important factor in assessing individual risk and deciding screening practices, it does not influence the diagnostic accuracy of the mammogram. Therefore, family history is not typically a factor that impacts the sensitivity of mammography in the detection of breast cancer.