About Us
The Breast Cancer Risk Clinic at Huntsman Cancer Institute is for women who may have a higher chance of breast or ovarian cancer due to genetic mutations or a family history of cancer.
Women with gene mutations such as BRCA1, BRCA2, TP53, ATM, CHEK2, or PALB2 mutations have increased risk of breast cancer. Women with strong family histories of breast cancer may also have a higher chance of breast cancer. There are many options to reduce the risk for breast cancer. There are also many options to screen for and help detect breast cancer early.
The purpose of the Breast Cancer Risk Clinic is to create a personal screening plan and help schedule any follow-up care for women at high risk for breast cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can visit the clinic?
The Breast Cancer Risk Clinic is for women ages 18 and up who can answer yes to one or more of these:
- Had genetic tests showing a cancer-related gene mutation in one of these genes: BRCA1, BRCA2, CHEK2, ATM, PALB2, TP53, or CDH1.
- If your genetic tests show mutations other than these, our genetic counselors can help decide if this clinic is right for you. Please call 801-587-9555.
- Have a strong family history of breast cancer
- A first-degree relative (mother, sister, daughter) diagnosed with breast cancer at a young age (for example, under age 50)
- Two or more first- or second-degree relatives with breast cancer
- Have a personal or family history of breast cancer, including a history of breast atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH), atypical lobular hyperplasia (ALH), ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), or lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS).
When I visit the clinic, what will I do?
- Review your personal and family health history and lifestyle factors that may add to breast cancer risk.
- Get a physical exam or breast exam by a doctor.
- Talk with a clinic team member about your personal screening plan and follow-up care based on your test results.
- Talk with a doctor or genetic counselor about the chance to take part in a research study about breast cancer risk.
Do I need genetic testing before I come?
No. A strong family history of breast cancer may qualify you for this clinic. Certain results of a breast biopsy may also qualify you. If you have not had genetic testing, our clinic staff may decide to schedule you with a genetic counselor before coming to the Breast Cancer Risk Clinic.
Our Experts
Resources
Research teams at Huntsman Cancer Institute want to learn how inherited factors, genetics, behaviors, and the environment may lead to different types of cancer. Teams include physicians, genetic counselors, research coordinators, and support personnel.
We offer studies and specialty services for people at high risk of cancer due to genetic factors, health behaviors, and the enviroment. People who are eligible can learn ways to detect, prevent, or manage cancer through our education, screening, and risk modeling services.
Breast Cancer Family Registry
One of six National Cancer Institute-funded breast cancer registries. For more information, contact Karen O'Toole at Karen.O'Toole@hci.utah.edu or 801-581-8795.
RiSE Clinic
This clinic is for women who are at increased risk for breast and/or ovarian cancer due to a genetic mutation.