Breast Cancer Prevention Program
The Breast Cancer Genetics and Prevention Program provides comprehensive risk assessment, education, and screening for patients at increased risk of breast cancer. Our multidisciplinary expert team of genetic counselors, nurse practitioners and physicians works together to create a personalized care plan for each patient. Patients found to be at increased risk can then choose to be followed in the Breast Cancer Prevention Program.
Who is at Increased Risk of Breast Cancer?
Individuals with:
- Strong family history of breast cancer
- Genetic predisposition, such as an inherited mutation in BRCA1/2 or other breast cancer-related genes
- Breast biopsy with atypical cells (atypical hyperplasia or lobular carcinoma in situ)
- Chest radiation as treatment for cancer under the age of 30
What to Expect from your Appointments
The Breast Cancer Genetics and Prevention Program aims to provide a comprehensive, personalized consultation tailored to the needs of the individual patient. Many patients will meet first with a genetic counselor who will review family history and other risk factors for cancer, explain the role of genetic testing for hereditary cancer syndromes, offer testing (if appropriate), and provide an overall cancer risk assessment. Those patients considered to be at increased risk of breast cancer can then choose to consult with the Breast Cancer Prevention Program, where we can provide a personalized breast cancer risk reduction care plan, including medical and surgical options. We offer clinical breast exams and self-breast exam education and arrange for appropriate breast cancer screening. If needed, we can also assist with arranging consultations with breast surgery, plastic surgery, gynecologic oncology and/or other specialists for a multidisciplinary approach to cancer prevention and surveillance.
Patients who opt to be followed in the Breast Cancer Prevention Program are typically seen once or twice per year.
