High-Risk Breast Cancer Clinic

One of the keys to successful breast cancer treatment is catching it as early as possible. This is especially true in people who are high risk and more likely to experience breast cancer in their lifetime. 

Our clinic determines your breast cancer risk factors. If you have a higher-than-average risk, we perform ongoing monitoring. These efforts detect subtle changes in breast tissue that may be signs of cancer. At UMass Memorial Health, we help you receive timely care that leads to the best possible outcomes. 

Who Is at High Risk for Breast Cancer?

You may face a higher risk of breast cancer if you have certain risk factors, such as:

• Family history of breast cancer, particularly in first-degree relatives, such as a sister, mother or daughter
• Personal history of breast cancer
• Family or personal history of breast disease that can become cancerous, such as breast atypical ductal hyperplasia
• Breast cancer gene mutation, such as the BRCA gene
• Other cancer-related mutations and syndromes, like Cowden syndrome, that can lead to breast cancer

Having one of these risk factors does not always mean you’ll end up with breast cancer. It means that your risk of cancer is higher than people who do not have risk factors. Managing it by coming to a program such as ours is one of the best ways to stay informed about your breast health.