High-Risk Breast Program

All women carry some risk for breast cancer, but some are at greater risk due to their family history or a previous pre-cancer diagnosis.

Women who are considered at a higher risk for developing breast cancer may have:

• A first-degree relative (mother, father, daughter, sister) or multiple second-degree relatives (first cousin, aunt, uncle, grandparent) with breast cancer.
• A family history of ovarian cancer.
• Had a breast biopsy showing signs of atypical (abnormal appearing) cells.

For women considered at an elevated risk for breast cancer, the High-Risk Breast Program at the Hawaiʻi Pacific Health Women's Centers offers an intensive monitoring plan aimed at identifying problems early, when they are most easily treated.

This program is similar to those found in breast centers across the United States.

The multidisciplinary program encompasses all of a woman’s needs, including:

• Imaging services
• Physician and nursing services
• Genetic counseling and testing
• Nutritional and psychological counseling
• Education on risk reduction and prevention/early detection methods
• Chemoprevention

Talk with your primary care provider if you are interested in joining the High-Risk Breast Program. An initial assessment based on your personal health history and family history will help determine whether or not you qualify for the program.

If you do qualify, you will receive a monitoring plan designed specifically for you, as well as information on nutrition, exercise, and stress reduction.

The High-Risk Breast Program is offered at Kapiʻolani and Pali Momi medical centers on Oʻahu, and at Wilcox Medical Center on Kauaʻi. Select from the locations below to learn more.