Baptist Health Paducah offers High Risk Breast Clinic for those at increased risk
PADUCAH, KY (Oct. 29, 2024) – Baptist Health Medical Group now offers a High-Risk Breast Clinic for women and men that offers comprehensive care, education, and access to preventative services for individuals at an elevated risk for breast cancer. The clinic's approach focuses on two key themes: prevention and early detection.
"When it comes to breast cancer, we can actually be proactive," said Kristen Williams, MD, general surgeon at Baptist Health Medical Group High-Risk Breast Clinic. "Women who are high risk have options to lower that risk and screen more often and with different testing to catch an early stage, curable breast cancer. I want to see the women and men of our community have access to genetic testing, high-risk screening, prevention, and early detection."
The clinic's prevention strategies include discussions on lifestyle modifications, medications that can lower risk, and preventative surgery. By addressing these factors, the clinic aims to empower patients to take control of their health and reduce their risk of developing breast cancer.
The High-Risk Breast Clinic offers a range of screening options tailored to each patient's individual needs. Some women may meet criteria for alternating mammograms and MRIs, allowing for more frequent and higher quality screening.
Genetic testing is also available. Patients at any Baptist Health location who are scheduled for a screening mammogram can access genetic testing by first completing a risk assessment questionnaire. This assessment gathers information on personal and family health histories to help identify any increased risk for breast cancer. If the questionnaire results indicate a high-risk status, the patient will be scheduled for a consultation with a genetic counselor, who will review the findings and help guide the patient on next steps.
High-Risk Breast patient Amanda Ward said her mother tested positive for the PalB2 gene, which prompted her to receive genetic testing. “The high-risk clinic has been great for me,” said Ward. “I rotate having mammograms and breast MRIs every 6 months. Dr. Williams manages these tests, so if something ever shows up, we will catch it in its earliest stage. I feel confident with the care I receive both from the high-risk clinic and the breast care team at the Baptist Imaging Center. I'm so thankful Baptist offers these services, and I don't have to travel far to receive high-quality care."
If you or someone you know may be at an elevated risk for breast cancer, schedule an appointment with the Baptist Health Medical Group High-Risk Breast clinic at 270.538.9555.