High-Risk Assessment
It Starts with Your Genes. Do you know about your risk for breast cancer? Do you have a hereditary gene mutation that puts you or your family members at higher risk for breast and other cancers?
Understanding your personal risk for breast cancer can lead to better care and improved chances of early detection and treatment for breast cancer. A personalized breast cancer risk assessment evaluates your personal risk factors, such as family health history, and arms you with knowledge and a course of action.
Assessment Questionnaire:
As a patient at Breastlink , you're offered a no-cost, voluntary high-risk assessment questionnaire sent via text or email prior to your appointment.Risk Calculation:
The questionnaire uses the Tyrer-Cuzick (TC) Risk Model to identify patients at an elevated risk for developing breast cancer. If the results indicate a high risk, we communicate this to you.Enhanced Screening Recommendation:
For patients with a 20% or higher lifetime risk of breast cancer, we recommend enhanced screening with breast MRI, in line with the current guidelines of leading health organizations.
Genetic Testing:
If your assessment results meet the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines for genetic testing, we offer this at the time of your appointment. The test screens for eight major cancers and syndromes using a 36-gene panel.Personalized Support:
We have a dedicated Breast Navigator to assist you with the program. The Navigator works directly with you to coordinate MRI orders, connect with high-risk patients, answer questions, and guide you through the process.Post-Exam Reports:
After your exam, you receive the Breast Imaging Report with TC score, Genetic Testing Report (if testing was performed), and Genetic Counseling Notes (if performed).
Should You Have Genetic Testing?
If you answer "YES" to any of the following questions, hereditary cancer genetic testing may be an option for you
- Have you/your family members been diagnosed with cancer at a young age (<50 years old)?
- Have 3 or more people on the same side of your family had cancer?
- Have you/your family members been diagnosed with more than one cancer?
- Has anyone in your family been found to have a cancer gene mutation?
- Have you/your family members been diagnosed with cancers that are usually rare, like ovarian cancer or male breast cancer?
- Are you of Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry?
I’ve already had genetic testing, should I participate in this too?
If your prior test was more than four years ago, we recommend an updated test due to advancements in genetic testing technology and the increased number of genes tested.
Genetic Testing at Breastlink
At Breastlink, we believe that knowledge is power, that’s why we’re working to help patients identify and understand their risk.
Patients referred to Breastlink for a mammogram will have the voluntary option to complete a brief, no-charge High-Risk Assessment questionnaire. Based on the results of this survey, the patient will be informed as to whether it is recommended that she receive genetic testing for hereditary cancer risk, based on established guidelines.
The genetic testing offered at Breastlink screens for 8 major cancers and syndromes using a 36-gene panel, with the majority of genes having NCCN-recommended medical management guidelines. Clinical management recommendations are also provided.
The continued goal at Breastlink is to provide the most comprehensive breast care for all patients, and high-risk assessment has become a vital component of this care.
Knowing Your Risk for Breast Cancer
Can Impact Your Imaging Plan
Breast cancer risk can be influenced by a variety of factors. For women identified as having an increased risk for breast cancer, earlier and more frequent breast cancer screening as well as considering preventive options may be necessary. 1-4
| Diagnostic Screening Plan for Risk Level 1-4 |  General Population Risk |
 Personal/Family History Risk Factors |
 Genetic Risk Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical Breast Exam | Annually | Every 6 Months | Every 6 Months |
| Mammogram * | Annually | Annually | Annually |
| Breast MRI * | - | Annually | Annually |
| Consider Preventative Surgery | - | - | Yes |
* Age may vary
REFERENCES
1. American College of Obstetricians-Gynecologists. Practice Bulletin No. 179: Breast cancer screening. Obstet Gynecol. 2017 July
2. Adapted from American College of Radiology Practice Guidelines. https://www.acr.org/-/media/ACR/Files/Practice-Parameters/mr-contrast-breast.pdf
3. NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology®. Breast Cancer Screening and Diagnosis. V.1.2019, May 17, 2019. Available at nccn.org.
4. NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology®. Genetic/Familial High-Risk Assessment: Breast and Ovarian. V.1.2020 - December 4, 2020. Available at nccn.org.
Locations
Breastlink Orange
230 S Main St, #100, Orange, CA 92868 | (714) 571-5900
Breastlink Newport Beach
1441 Avocado Ave, #301, Newport Beach, CA 92660 | (949) 272-2095
Tarzana
18133 Ventura Blvd, #200, Tarzana, CA 91356 | (818) 784-8799
Beverly Hills
8750 Wilshire Blvd, #200, Beverly Hills CA 90211 | (310) 385-7747
Marina Del Rey
4640 Admiralty Way, #102 Marina del Rey, CA 90292 | (310) 305-4500
Pasadena
630 S. Raymond Avenue, Suite 201, Pasadena CA 91105 | (626) 829-8350
Services
Breastlink delivers comprehensive care, encompassing imaging, risk assessment, surgery, oncology, and reconstruction. Our integrated, dedicated team collaborates on personalized treatment plans, ensuring patients receive the highest-quality breast health services.
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Breastlink's extensive network of breast specialists includes oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, and more, all devoted to breast health. Our breast experts collaborate, providing personalized, compassionate care tailored to every unique patient's needs.
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Breastlink's multi-disciplinary breast health centers in California & Arizona offer 3D mammography, Breast MRI, surgery, oncology, and more. Our dedicated approach ensures top-quality care, enabling patients to actively participate in their breast health journey.
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