High-Risk Breast Screening Program

Breast cancer screening is most effective when it’s personalized. While many people fall into the average risk category, others have a higher than average risk of breast cancer and benefit from a more tailored, proactive approach.

At Maiden Lane Medical, our High-Risk Breast Screening Program is designed to help detect breast cancer when it’s most treatable and to provide patients with personalized strategies to reduce their overall risk. If you’re concerned about your breast cancer risk or family history, our health care providers in New York are here to guide you through risk assessment, screening options, and next steps. Contact one of our offices today to get started.

What Is a High-Risk Breast Cancer Screening Program?

A high-risk breast cancer screening program focuses on individuals with an increased risk of developing breast cancer compared to the average-risk population. Breast cancer risk is influenced by many factors, including family history, genetic mutations, breast density, and personal history.

Standard breast cancer screening guidelines, such as those developed by the American Cancer Society, are designed for average-risk women. However, individuals with higher than average risk often require enhanced screening and closer surveillance to detect breast cancer early. Detecting breast cancer early can help save lives.

Why We Offer High-Risk Breast Screening

Breast cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer death, and delayed diagnosis can lead to advanced breast cancer and higher breast cancer deaths. Our program reflects our commitment to early detection and personalized care.

High-risk women may include those with:

A strong family history of breast cancer
Known gene mutations, such as BRCA, through genetic testing or a first-degree relative
A personal history of atypical hyperplasia or LCIS
Prior chest radiation exposure
Other risk factors that increase lifetime risk

By identifying risk factors early, we can assess breast cancer risk accurately and design screening strategies that go beyond routine cancer screening.

What Makes Our High-Risk Breast Screening Program Different

Our approach is rooted in comprehensive breast cancer risk assessment and individualized care. We use validated risk assessment tools and clinical judgment to estimate lifetime risk and guide screening decisions.

Our program includes:

Formal breast cancer risk assessment using tools like the Tyrer-Cuzick and Gail models that assess breast cancer risk and provide risk estimates
Access to genetic counseling and genetic testing when a gene mutation is suspected
Coordination with breast imaging specialists for advanced diagnostics
Personalized screening plans that align with evolving screening guidelines

What Screening Looks Like for High-Risk Breast Cancer Patients

Screening modality depends on many different factors. High-risk breast cancer screening may include:

Mammograms: Screening mammograms use low-dose X-rays to detect changes in breast tissue. High-risk breast cancer patients should get screening mammograms every year starting at a younger age than someone at average risk.

Breast MRI screening: An MRI can provide detailed images of the inside of the breast. MRI screening is recommended for high-risk patients along with mammograms starting at a younger age than for someone at average risk. This test can sometimes detect cancers that mammograms cannot, and it also does not emit ionizing radiation, so it won’t increase your radiation exposure.
Breast ultrasound: Ultrasound uses sound waves to detect changes in breast tissue. They are particularly useful in differentiating between fluid-filled cysts and solid masses. They can also increase detection in patients with dense breast tissue. Breast sonograms are often used for women with dense breasts that cannot fully be evaluated with mammograms alone.

These screening tests allow providers to evaluate the entire breast and improve the ability to detect breast cancer at earlier stages.

Why Our High-Risk Breast Screening Program Matters—to Us and to Our Community

According to the CDC, the incidence of breast cancer among those under the age of 45 is increasing. This is significant because those with an average risk begin screening at this age. Therefore, high-risk patients need to have access to screening before they reach this age.

Research shows that early detection significantly reduces cancer death and improves outcomes. Communities without access to advanced screening are more likely to see invasive cancer, advanced disease, and higher mortality rates.

This program reflects our belief in:

Making preventive care available regardless of social or economic circumstances
Closing gaps in breast cancer disparities
Empowering patients with knowledge
Supporting cancer intervention strategies that save lives

By aligning with national screening guidelines while individualizing care, we aim to reduce breast cancer mortality and support long-term wellness. Knowing if you’re at high risk for cancer also allows us to take preventative measures such as lifestyle changes, medications, or surgeries that can all reduce the risk of cancer, depending on the specific situation.

Who Should Consider Enrolling in Our High-Risk Breast Screening Program?

We routinely assess breast cancer risk during breast imaging appointments and routine visits with our doctors here at Maiden Lane Medical. You may also request an evaluation if you’re concerned about increased risk.

You may benefit from this program if:

You have a first-degree relative diagnosed with breast cancer
You have undergone or are considering genetic testing
You had atypical cells on a previous breast biopsy
You’re concerned about your lifetime risk

If you answered yes to any of these, our team can help assess breast cancer risk and guide next steps.

How to Get Started on Our High-Risk Breast Screening Program

Getting started is simple:

Schedule a consultation with our health care providers
Review your personal history, family history, and prior screening tests
Receive guidance on screening mammography, breast MRI, or other imaging
Discuss insurance coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs

We help patients navigate screening guidelines, understand risk, and choose the right screening modality with confidence.

Take the Next Step in Your Breast Health

Understanding your breast cancer risk is a powerful step toward protecting your health. If you have a family history, known risk factors, or simply want clarity about when and how to begin screening, our High-Risk Breast Screening Program offers expert guidance, advanced breast imaging, and personalized care.

Our team at Maiden Lane Medical is here to help you assess your breast cancer risk, navigate screening options, and create a plan that supports early detection and long-term wellness. Contact us at one of our offices in New York today to schedule a consultation and take a proactive approach to your breast health.

Medically Reviewed By

Fernando Mariz, MD

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Specialists

Tiffany Alexis Clinton, MD

Gillian Scott Hans, NP, CNM

Jill-Ann Swenson, MD, FACOG

Blair Uhlig, CNM

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