Baptist Health Paducah offers High-Risk Breast Clinic for patients at increased risk for breast cancer

PADUCAH, KY (Oct. 20, 2026) – Every woman has a different risk for breast cancer. The High-Risk Breast Clinic at Baptist Health Paducah helps women with an increased risk better understand their individual risk factors and develop a personalized plan for screening, 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."

For Cara Lovell, the importance of early detection is personal. Her breast cancer was discovered during a routine mammogram. The tumor was located so close to her chest wall that Lovell said she would not have found it through a self-breast exam. Additional imaging and a biopsy confirmed stage 1 breast cancer.

“Do not put this off!”, said Lovell. “I had been getting yearly mammograms since I was 40. My breasts are very dense, which can make it more difficult to see everything. However, with the technology we have today, things can be caught very early. We have to take care of ourselves!”

Following her diagnosis, Lovell faced decisions about treatment and ultimately chose to undergo a lumpectomy. After surgery, she began medication and completed 15 radiation treatments in June. Today, as a patient of the High-Risk Breast Clinic, Lovell continues to be closely monitored.

“I am part of the high-risk breast clinic. The experience has been very positive. It is comforting to know that someone is watching my care so closely,” said Lovell.

Lovell is now monitored every six months, alternating between mammograms and breast MRIs. She recently had first mammogram following treatment, which came back clear.

Baptist Health Paducah’s High-Risk Breast Clinic provides personalized screening and prevention plans based on each patient’s individual risk. Depending on a woman’s needs, women may qualify for enhanced screening with mammograms and breast MRIs, as well as prevention strategies such as lifestyle modifications, medications and preventive surgery.

Genetic testing is also available through a risk assessment of personal and family health history. Women identified as high risk can meet with a genetic counselor to review their results and determine appropriate next steps.

Lovell encourages other women to take ownership of their breast health and not delay routine screenings.

“As women, we are not always the best at taking care of ourselves. We have to take ownership of our health, and it starts with routine mammograms. The staff at the Baptist Imaging Center will make you feel comfortable and take great care of you.”

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Baptist Health Paducah’s High-Risk Breast Clinic, call 270.538.9555.