Baptist Health Paducah Implements CARE Program to Identify High Risk Cancer Patients

Paducah, KY (October 3, 2023) - Baptist Health Paducah has launched the Ambry CARE Program to better identify patients at a higher risk of developing breast and other cancers. The program analyzes patients' medical and family history to estimate their lifetime breast cancer risk and determine if they qualify for hereditary cancer testing. The program uses National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) genetic testing criteria to evaluate patients' personal and family history of cancer to determine if they are eligible for genetic testing.

"Identifying patients at increased risk for certain cancers based on clinical and family history risk factors can enable healthcare providers to make personalized recommendations regarding earlier, more frequent or different types of cancer screening, as well as available preventive surgical options," said Erica Jordan, APRN with Baptist Health Medical Group Hematology/Oncology.

Jenise McGee, 52-years-old from Barlow, Kentucky, discovered she was at high risk for breast cancer because of the risk assessment she took prior to her mammogram. Following the assessment, McGee was contacted by Baptist Health Paducah’s genetic navigator, Carrie Green.

"I didn't even know what genetic testing was before I came in for my appointment. I have never been diagnosed with cancer, but with my family history, taking this assessment and receiving genetic testing and just knowing my results honestly made me feel much better," said McGee.

Patients who receive a positive genetic test result can receive recommendations for personalized medical management, including increased cancer screening and sometimes prevention options.

McGee’s results revealed she was at high-risk for developing breast cancer and tested positive for Lynch Syndrome, putting her at an elevated risk for developing colon and uterine cancers. Her medical team formed a personalized plan that included total hysterectomy and undergoes frequent breast MRI’s and colonoscopies.

"I think it's a very good thing to know what you are at risk for so you can stay on top of it. I recommend this to anyone who has a family history because early prevention is the key to survival,” said McGee.