High-risk breast cancer program

Understanding your breast cancer risk

Research shows the most common factors that increase your risk of breast cancer are genetics and family history. The chances of developing breast cancer increase with other factors such as breast density, history of abnormal breast biopsies, previous radiation to the chest and lifestyle.

Using a variety of tools, the specialists at the UW Health Cancer Center at ProHealth Care evaluate your risk for cancer and develop a personalized care plan to support your long-term health. Plans may include:

• Cancer risk assessment
• Genetic counseling and tests
• Personalized screening, monitoring and follow-up schedule
• Clinical trial participation
• Risk reduction strategies
• Referrals to specialists
• Counseling and support groups
• Education, wellness and prevention programs

Our team

A nurse practitioner, who also is a certified oncology and breast care nurse, coordinates your care. Additional cancer experts may provide support, including genetic counselors, medical or gynecological oncologists, radiologists or a specially trained breast surgeon.

As the patient, you are the most important part of your care team. That’s because you’re at the center of everything we do. At the UW Health Cancer Center at ProHealth Care, you’ll benefit from the combined expertise of specialists from ProHealth and UW Health. Your care team will meet regularly to discuss your health and create a coordinated treatment plan that fits you.