50+ Lifestyles

Breast Cancer Risk Awareness

By D. Aanestad, MD, FACS
Davenport Surgical Group

October is breast cancer awareness month. This month, many people wear a pink ribbon in support of a loved one battling the disease. Others may be reminded to schedule their annual mammogram or visit their doctor for a checkup. This month also provides an opportunity to enhance breast cancer RISK awareness. Understanding breast cancer risk factors is the first step towards effectively managing or reducing breast cancer risk.

Unfortunately, breast cancer is common. One in eight women will develop the disease during their lifetime. The number one risk factor for breast cancer is female gender, followed closely by advancing age (most often after menopause) and family history. Patients who have closely related family members with breast or ovarian cancer are at high risk. Other factors such as dense breast tissue, nulliparity (never having children), a history of breast biopsies (especially if they are abnormal) and exposure to estrogen can increase risk.

Sometimes breast cancer risk is inherited through a genetic mutation passed from generation to generation. BRCA1 and BRCA2 are two such mutations which can dramatically increase a patient’s chance of developing breast, ovarian and other cancers.

Patients can obtain breast cancer risk estimates using algorithms that analyze known risk factors. Patients at high risk for an inherited form of breast cancer can undergo genetic counseling and DNA testing to find out if they carry a mutation.

If a patient is found to have high risk or carry a mutation, there are options available to manage or lower breast cancer risk. Many women qualify for enhanced screening utilizing 3D mammograms and breast MRI to improve early detection. Some women opt for medical therapy such as Tamoxifen (an estrogen blocking agent) to reduce their risks. In patients with the highest risk, surgery to remove cancer prone breast tissue is an option.

Understanding and estimating breast cancer risk can empower patients and hopefully lead to early detection, improved treatment outcomes and reduced risk. Breast cancer risk assessment, genetic counseling and genetic testing is available through the Kenneth H. McKay Center for Breast Health at Genesis Medical Center.

David J. Aaenstad, MD, FACS is a physician at Davenport Surgical Group PC. For more information call (563) 823-9300.