High-Risk Breast Cancer Program at Magee

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High-Risk Breast Cancer Program Overview

Your risk of developing breast cancer may be high if you carry a specific mutation in your genes or have a family history of breast cancer.

High-risk women benefit from screening and close monitoring to diagnose breast cancer early when it's more treatable.

If you're concerned about breast cancer, you can undergo an evaluation at the Magee-Womens High-Risk Breast Cancer Program, which may include: 

  • a risk assessment
  • a clinical breast exam
  • screening tests
  • genetic counseling and education about your risk of developing breast cancer and potential implications for family members
  • personalized surveillance plans
  • prevention strategies

Our team of breast cancer specialists combines the latest medical and scientific knowledge with the most advanced surveillance and diagnostic methods.

You also have the option to participate in breast cancer research studies to take advantage of the most recent treatment options available.

For more information about the High-Risk Breast Cancer Program, or to schedule an appointment, call 412-623-3425.

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Cancer Risk Assessment

The experts at the High-Risk Breast Cancer Program will conduct a brief cancer risk assessment to:

  • evaluate your breast cancer risk factors
  • help you understand how various factors influence your risk
  • provide information on appropriate ways to reduce that risk

Gail model risk assessment

This breast cancer risk assessment tool, developed by scientists at the National Cancer Institute and the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project, enables a health care professional to project a woman’s individual estimate of risk for invasive breast cancer over a five-year period and over her lifetime (up to age 90).

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Breast Cancer Screening Tests

If you're at an increased risk for developing breast cancer, it's important to monitor your health.

Even though you may not be experiencing symptoms, screening tests can detect early stage signs of breast cancer. And, the sooner you're diagnosed and treated, the better your chance for recovery.

Breast cancer screening tests may include:

  • Clinical breast exams — A thorough physical examination of the breasts performed by a health care specialist.
  • Diagnostic mammograms — A test for women who are experiencing symptoms of breast cancer, or for women following a breast biopsy or surgery.
  • Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) — An imaging test for women with a high-risk of breast cancer. An MRI is often performed in addition to a mammogram.

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Genetic Counseling and Testing

Researchers have identified certain genes that, when changed or mutated, increase your risk for developing breast cancer.

Depending on your personal and family history, you may decide to have the experts at the Cancer Genetics Program study your specific genes.

Genetic testing information may help you:

  • learn if you have an increased likelihood of developing breast cancer
  • discover if inherited factors have contributed to yours or a family member's cancer
  • make more informed medical decisions

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Psychosocial Support

At times, you may feel overwhelmed with issues regarding your increased risk of breast cancer.

The High-Risk Breast Cancer Program team includes a social worker and a psychologist who are specially trained to help you deal with the risk of cancer.

They can assist you in learning ways to cope with your concerns about developing cancer, and help you make the best decision about reducing your risk.

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Scheduling Your Appointment

Call 412-623-3425 to schedule an appointment at the High-Risk Breast Cancer Program.

We're located at Hillman Cancer Center, 5115 Centre Ave., in the Shadyside area of Pittsburgh, Pa.

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