Annual Breast Cancer Risk Assessment

Annual mammograms starting at age 40 can help find breast cancer early, but what else can women do? 

A cancer risk assessment can help women understand their risk and take action based on their results. Completing a risk questionnaire helps calculate your cancer risk. This guides recommendations for a personalized screening plan, genetic testing or other preventative actions. This is especially important for younger women who are too young for annual mammograms. 

Before taking the questionnaire, get prepared. Gather your family medical history for both your mother's and father's side, including type of cancer and agent diagnosis. Questions about your medical history and lifestyle will also be asked. Your finished questionnaire will guide your health care team on creating your personalized care plan. 

If your family history finds you may be at higher risk, you may be offered education to find if genetic testing is right for you.

If your personal medical history shows you may be at higher risk, you may be offered additional screening exams, prevention steps or a referral for specialized care. 

Once you know your cancer risk, you can do something about it. A personalized breast care plan is key to help stay ahead of cancer. Talk to your health care team about the benefits of a cancer risk assessment and see if a personalized breast care plan is right for you.