What is a breast cancer screening risk assessment score at Avera?

This paid piece is sponsored by Avera Health.

Recently, Avera implemented software that offers a cancer risk assessment for all patients who come in for screening and diagnostic mammograms.

“Knowing a patient’s breast cancer risk score can help determine if a patient needs more frequent and specialized breast imaging,” said Tara Kocourek, director of breast health.

As patients come in for their mammograms, they now will be asked specific risk assessment questions before obtaining their mammogram images. These risk assessment questions are focused on:

• Height/weight.
• Personal breast history.
• Family history of cancer.
• Gynecologic history.
• Pregnancy history.
• Hormone history.
• Known genetic mutation such as BRCA1 or BRCA2.
• Breast density.

How your breast cancer risk is calculated 

Most women will be of an average risk score for developing breast cancer. A risk score of 20 percent or greater means you have a higher than average chance to develop breast cancer in your lifetime. This does NOT mean you are going to get breast cancer but does mean you should consider being screened more often.

Understanding options for women with a high risk for breast cancer 

Yearly mammograms starting at 40 years old, along with monthly self-exams, are routine recommendations for women of average risk.

“We’re always using mammogram as a tool to detect breast cancer,” said Dr. Michelle Bryan, a fellowship-trained breast surgeon. “There’s nothing that takes the place of a mammogram.”

Women who are identified as high risk may follow up at Avera High Risk Breast Clinic, where they would assist with developing a personalized imaging plan, discuss risk-reduction strategies and meet with a genetic counselor. Follow up with your primary care provider to see if a high-risk referral is appropriate for you.

Imaging recommendations for high-risk patients are personalized based on the patient’s risk score, family history and personal factors. Many high-risk patients get imaging every six months based on guidelines set by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. Specialized imaging could include diagnostic mammograms, contrast-enhanced spectral mammogram or breast MRI.

Genetic counseling and breast cancer risk

Avera genetic counselors are specialized in genetics and risk assessments. They can help families and individuals understand and manage their chance of developing cancer based on family history and genetics.

If you do have an average risk score but still have a family history of cancer, you would benefit from meeting with a genetic counselor.

When you meet with a genetic counselor, they will review your family and medical history, discuss how likely cancer in your family is hereditary or familial, discuss your risk for certain cancers, discuss the risk and benefits of genetic testing and explain test results if you decide that is best for you.

Get more wellness and prevention tips at Avera.org/Balance.