Most women are at average risk of developing breast cancer. However, there are some women who are at higher-than average risk. Many factors can influence a woman’s risk, and knowing your risk can have an impact on the decisions you make about your health, including helping to prevent a late-stage diagnosis. If you are diagnosed with breast cancer, early detection gives you more treatment options and a better chance of a good outcome.
What is a breast cancer risk assessment?
A breast cancer risk assessment is a percentage calculation of a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer in her lifetime. The Froedtert & MCW health network uses the Tyrer-Cuzick model to determine risk, which is a validated, nationally recognized risk calculation model. This model is known for its accuracy because it incorporates breast density information from the mammogram into the risk score. Generally, the denser the breast tissue a woman has, the higher her risk is of developing breast cancer. Other risk factors the model considers include family history, age, body mass index (BMI), hormonal and reproductive factors, prior breast biopsy results and genetic testing results.
Why is breast cancer risk assessment important?
Most women have a 12% risk of developing breast cancer in their lifetime. Women who are high risk have a score of 20% or more. The goal of a breast cancer risk assessment is to identify the women who are at higher risk before they develop breast cancer, so we can intervene early to provide more personalized care. National guidelines recommend women over the age of 40 get a yearly mammogram, but screening for women at high risk typically involves alternating between a mammogram and an MRI every six months. Some women may also benefit from genetic testing or risk-reducing medications.
Who can get a breast cancer risk assessment?
An eligible woman who gets a mammogram through the Froedtert & MCW health network receives a breast cancer risk assessment. About 8% of women having mammograms in our health network are found to be at high risk, which was about 4,300 patients last year. The risk assessment is free, and it only adds a few minutes to each mammogram. We calculate the risk score each year with the most up-to-date and accurate data. A detailed explanation of an individual’s risk and personalized care recommendations are provided in the mammogram results letter sent to patients.
What makes the Froedtert & MCW Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Program unique?
Our program is unique because, in addition to providing a risk score, we provide comprehensive navigation for high-risk women by breast imaging nurses. This includes individualized care recommendations based on their personal risk factors. Our program prevents high-risk women who may not have otherwise known about their risk from falling through the cracks. Thanks to our program, in the span of one year, we doubled the number of women who are getting high-risk care in our health network. Our goal is to educate and empower women about their breast cancer risk so they can make the most informed decisions about their care.
Annual Breast Cancer Risk Assessment
