The average woman in the United States has a 12 percent lifetime risk for breast cancer. But who is the average woman?
This program is designed to determine your personalized lifetime risk of developing breast cancer by evaluating both your family profile and the well-defined National Cancer Institute (NCI) risk factors. All participants meet with a certified genetic counselor to discuss breast cancer risk and appropriate screening guidelines and with a registered nurse to focus on breast cancer prevention, including instruction on self-breast exam. Women at high risk are offered a genetic consultation, genetic testing when appropriate, and meet with a physician for further evaluation.
Risk Assessment
The High Risk Breast Cancer Program combines the latest medical and scientific knowledge with the most advanced surveillance and diagnostic methods. Women and their family members concerned about breast cancer can undergo an evaluation by a team of breast cancer specialists which includes:
- a risk assessment
- a clinical breast exam
- screening tests (FNA, ductal lavage)
- genetic counseling, assessment and education about breast cancer risk and potential implications for family members
- a personalized surveillance plan
- prevention strategies
Who is at Risk for Breast Cancer?
All women are at risk:
- Age: The number one risk factor for developing breast cancer is age. The older you are, the greater the risk of developing the disease. Four out of five breast cancers are diagnosed in women over fifty.
- Family History of Cancer - Genetic Inheritance
One or more first degree relatives (mother, sister, daughter) who had breast cancer, particularly before menopause. OR two or more other close relatives such as aunts, cousins with a history of breast cancer, especially at a young age.
- Ashkenazi Jewish Descent: Some individuals of Ashkenazi (Eastern European) Jewish heritage have been found to have an inherited characteristic that may lead to breast or ovarian cancer.
- Certain Breast Changes: Having a diagnosis of atypical hyperplasia or lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) or having had two or more breast biopsies for other benign conditions may increase a woman's risk.
- Estrogen May Play a Role: Beginning your menstrual periods at an early age; going through menopause at a late age; having no children; having your first pregnancy after age 30.
Who Should be Evaluated?
Women and their family members who:
- Are concerned about their risk of developing breast cancer
- Are at increased risk of breast cancer requiring a consultation for prevention options and a personalized breast cancer surveillance plan with a breast cancer specialist
For more information, call 484-337-8710.
