BRIEF REPORT
Lashika Yogendran, MD, MS; Lindsey Meis, BS; Elizabeth Burnside, MD, MS, MPH; Sarina Schrager, MD, MS
Corresponding Author: Sarina Schrager, MD, MS; University of Wisconsin - Department of Family Medicine and Community Health
Email: sbschrag@wisc.edu
DOI: 10.3122/jabfm.2023.230064R1
Keywords: Breast Cancer, Cancer Screening, Chemoprophylaxis, Diagnostic Imaging, Family Health History, Referral and Consultation
Dates: Submitted: 02-23-2023; Revised: 06-19-2023; Accepted: 06-26-2023
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BACKGROUND: Primary care clinicians screen for breast cancer risk factors and assess risk level of their patients. Women at high risk for breast cancer (e.g., 5-year risk of at least 3% or lifetime risk of ≥20%) are eligible for enhanced screening and/or chemoprophylaxis. However, many clinicians do not identify women at high risk and offer appropriate referrals, screening, or chemoprophylaxis.
METHODS: We reviewed a sample of 200 charts of women ages 35-50 years old with a family history of breast cancer. We identified factors that contribute to their risk for breast cancer and used the Tyrer-Cuzick Risk Assessment Calculator to determine their personal lifetime risk. We then assessed whether these patients received counseling for chemoprophylaxis, referrals, or screening. We also looked for correlations between combinations of risk factors and increased lifetime risk.
RESULTS: Out of 200 charts reviewed, 71 women were identified as high risk for breast cancer (lifetime risk of ≥20%). Of those 71 women, just 17 were referred to a high-risk clinic for enhanced screening and/or chemoprophylaxis. Three risk factors, mammographic breast density of category C or D, 1st degree relatives with breast cancer, and age first given birth if after 30 years old had a significant impact on lifetime risk for breast cancer.
DISCUSSION: Primary care clinicians can use these independent risk factors as cues to pursue a more formal calculation of a woman’s lifetime risk for breast cancer and make appropriate referrals for enhanced screening and chemoprophylaxis counseling if indicated.