FAQs: High Risk for Breast Cancer
Are there ways to lower my risk? How should I do self-examinations? Learn the answers to these and other common questions about breast care if you are at a higher risk for breast cancer.
Being a "high-risk" patient does not mean you are certain to develop breast cancer.
This term refers to those who carry a genetic marker or have family history of breast cancer that can increase the possibility of developing a type of breast cancer.
What to Expect
If you are considered at risk of developing breast cancer, you can take charge of your health by talking to your doctor and following the recommendations for receiving regular mammograms and other examinations.
Watch: Am I at Increased Risk?
It's important to empower yourself with knowledge of your own risk factors for breast cancer.
Depending on your level of risk, your physician could refer you to the high-risk breast cancer prevention program. This program is a diverse team of care providers that includes:
- Genetic counselors
- Dietitians
- Social workers
- Lifestyle counselors
Your First Visit
The first visit under the high-risk breast cancer prevention program at IU Health provides you the opportunity to voice your concerns to a physician who is there to listen to you.
Your appointment will be at the IU Health Simon Cancer Center. Learn more about parking options, amenities and services offered at the IU Health Simon Cancer Center.
Your appointment will last approximately one hour and will always be with an experienced and specialized breast cancer provider from the IU Health Simon Cancer Center.
During your visit, you can expect the following:
- The physician will take an extensive review of your health history. He or she will use proven methods as well as their clinical experience to determine your level of risk.
- The physician will discuss ways in which you can reduce risk, including exercise, lifestyle behaviors and medications.
- You will work directly with our breast cancer physicians at the IU Health Simon Cancer Center to develop a comprehensive individualized surveillance plan to help manage your risk.
Watch: Breast Cancer Prevention Program Benefits
In this video, learn about the innovative high-risk breast cancer prevention program at IU Health that develops individualized surveillance plans to help manage each woman's risk of developing breast cancer.
A Personalized Plan
Our highly-skilled physicians will provide you with a personalized plan that fits your individual needs. This plan consists of a 360 degree approach that provides:
- State-of-the-art screening options and frequency based on your level of risk
- Detailed discussion of your family history and genetic counseling, if indicated
- Support for lifestyle changes to reduce your personal risk of breast cancer
- Education on potential preventative therapies
- Opportunities to engage in clinical research, if appropriate
What to Expect
If you are considered at risk of developing breast cancer, you can take charge of your health by talking to your doctor and following the recommendations for receiving regular mammograms and other examinations.
Watch: Am I at Increased Risk?
It's important to empower yourself with knowledge of your own risk factors for breast cancer.
Depending on your level of risk, your physician could refer you to the high-risk breast cancer prevention program. This program is a diverse team of care providers that includes:
- Genetic counselors
- Dietitians
- Social workers
- Lifestyle counselors
Your First Visit
The first visit under the high-risk breast cancer prevention program at IU Health provides you the opportunity to voice your concerns to a physician who is there to listen to you.
Your appointment will be at the IU Health Simon Cancer Center. Learn more about parking options, amenities and services offered at the IU Health Simon Cancer Center.
Your appointment will last approximately one hour and will always be with an experienced and specialized breast cancer provider from the IU Health Simon Cancer Center.
During your visit, you can expect the following:
- The physician will take an extensive review of your health history. He or she will use proven methods as well as their clinical experience to determine your level of risk.
- The physician will discuss ways in which you can reduce risk, including exercise, lifestyle behaviors and medications.
- You will work directly with our breast cancer physicians at the IU Health Simon Cancer Center to develop a comprehensive individualized surveillance plan to help manage your risk.
Watch: Breast Cancer Prevention Program Benefits
In this video, learn about the innovative high-risk breast cancer prevention program at IU Health that develops individualized surveillance plans to help manage each woman's risk of developing breast cancer.
A Personalized Plan
Our highly-skilled physicians will provide you with a personalized plan that fits your individual needs. This plan consists of a 360 degree approach that provides:
- State-of-the-art screening options and frequency based on your level of risk
- Detailed discussion of your family history and genetic counseling, if indicated
- Support for lifestyle changes to reduce your personal risk of breast cancer
- Education on potential preventative therapies
- Opportunities to engage in clinical research, if appropriate
If you believe you may be at risk, schedule an appointment with one of our highly-skilled physicians.
Find a Provider
Frequently Asked Questions About Being High Risk for Breast Cancer
Frequently Asked Questions About Being High Risk for Breast Cancer
- Genetic Mutations
- Warning Signs & Exams
What is the BRCA gene mutation and could I carry it?
Are there other genetic mutations that increase my breast cancer risk?
What are the early warning signs of breast cancer that should prompt medical evaluation?
What are the best ways to image my breast?
How often should I do self-examinations?
Are there ways to lower my level of risk?
Frequently Asked Questions About Being High Risk for Breast Cancer
- Genetic Mutations
- Warning Signs & Exams
What is the BRCA gene mutation and could I carry it?
Are there other genetic mutations that increase my breast cancer risk?
What are the early warning signs of breast cancer that should prompt medical evaluation?
What are the best ways to image my breast?
How often should I do self-examinations?
Are there ways to lower my level of risk?
Resources
Resources
FAQs: High Risk for Breast Cancer
Are there ways to lower my risk? How should I do self-examinations? Learn the answers to these and other common questions about breast care if you are at a higher risk for breast cancer.