Northside Hospital now offers free breast cancer risk assessments with screening mammograms to help identify high-risk women who may benefit from additional services.
The new service is available to all screening mammography patients at Northside imaging locations.
The details:
- Women with a screening mammogram appointment receive a risk assessment survey via email before their visit.
- The survey gathers information on multiple factors like family and personal medical history that can influence breast cancer risk. The more information the patient provides, the more accurate the risk assessment is.
- During the mammogram, breast density is evaluated and combined with the survey data to calculate a lifetime breast cancer risk score. Patients and their referring providers receive this score alongside the mammogram results.
- Women with a 20% or higher lifetime risk score are considered high risk and should consult their provider or Northside’s High Risk Clinic regarding additional services that may be beneficial.
The big picture: Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, excluding skin cancers, accounting for about 30% of new female cancer cases annually. The American Cancer Society estimates 316,950 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in 2025.
While family history is a known risk factor, most women diagnosed with breast cancer lack it. Risk assessment helps identify women who may be unaware they are considered high risk for developing the disease, underscoring the importance of annual screening mammograms for all women.
What they're saying: “With recent advances in our understanding of breast cancer we’re better able to individualize evaluation and care for each patient’s unique situation,” said Dr. Lynn Baxter, section chair of breast imaging at Northside Radiology Associates and Northside Hospital.
“Risk assessment plays a very important role. It can help to identify women who may not know that they are at increased risk of breast cancer and allow them to optimize their prevention and screening strategies,” Dr. Baxter added. “It can also provide reassurance to those whose risk may not be as high as they had feared.”
What’s next: Northside recommends annual mammograms starting at age 40, following guidance from the American College of Radiology and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. Northside's High Risk Clinic provides personalized risk-reduction plans and coordinated care for women at increased risk, available at multiple locations.
Northside offers comprehensive breast cancer screening and diagnostic services at more than 25 locations across Georgia, including the ScreenAtlanta Mobile Mammography van.
Schedule a mammogram: Call 404-851-6577 or visit northside.com/mammogram to self-schedule.
