At a glance
This page summarizes expert recommendations for preventive measures women with an increased risk of breast cancer can take.
Risk management strategies
The strategies to manage and reduce risk for women with a confirmed genetic susceptibility to breast and ovarian cancer include:
- Earlier, more frequent, or additional and intensive cancer screening modalities (such as breast MRI).
- Risk-reducing surgeries such as mastectomy and salpingoophorectomy (for ovarian cancer).
- Risk-reducing medications such as tamoxifen.
Personal preference is an important factor in patients’ decisions about risk-reducing strategies.
Preventive screening guidelines
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) and the American Cancer Society (ACS) offer recommendations for preventive measures that can be taken when risk for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer has been identified. Health care providers can consider these recommendations, taking into account the potential benefits and harms of preventive services such as screening, counseling, and preventive medications.
National Comprehensive Cancer Network
The NCCN recommends breast cancer screening for women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation or a first-degree relative who has a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation, even if the patient has not been tested for BRCA gene mutations.
The NCCN recommends that women at high risk get a mammogram and breast MRI every year starting at age 25 to 40, depending on the type of gene mutation and youngest age of breast cancer in the family. The NCCN also suggests that women at high risk have clinical breast exams every 6 to 12 months beginning at age 25. These women should also consult with a health care provider to discuss screening and how to manage their risk.
American Cancer Society
The ACS recommends that women at high risk should get a mammogram and breast MRI every year. The ACS suggests that women at high risk begin screening at age 30 or an age recommended by their health care provider and continue for as long as they are in good health. Since there is limited evidence for the best age to start screening, the ACS believes this decision should be shared by the patient and her health care provider to ensure personal circumstances and preferences are taken into account.
More information
- Final Recommendation Statement: Breast Cancer Screening (US Preventive Services Task Force)