Understanding Hereditary Cancer Risk at Baptist Health Floyd

Understanding Hereditary Cancer Risk at Baptist Health Floyd Healthtalk Transcript

Roseline Okeke, MD, Hematology & Oncology
Jessica Gatterdam, RN, Oncology Nurse Navigator
Baptist Health Floyd

Roseline Okeke, MD:

We have the cancer risk assessment program at Baptist Health Floyd. When women come in for their routine mammogram, they are given a set of questions online to answer to decide if they meet criteria for genetic testing based on their family history. If they do, then they are also given educational materials. They're educated on the process, and if they agree to proceed, we'll draw their genetic testing on-site.

Jessica Gatterdam, RN:

Having a cancer risk assessment program is important because we are able to identify, based on a patient's personal and family history, whether or not they meet the National Comprehensive Cancer Network criteria to receive genetic testing or calculate what's called a Tyrer-Cuzick score, which is the breast cancer risk model that we use to estimate a patient's lifetime risk for developing breast cancer. If they have an elevated Tyrer-Cuzick score, we offer them an additional breast screening every year that includes a breast MRI, and they can meet with our high-risk provider to discuss other risk-reducing options they may have.

Roseline Okeke, MD:

Early detection is important because if we find breast cancer at a very early stage, there's a high chance of being cured. If we find it at a later stage, then that limits the chance of being cured. Early detection is very important in order to survive breast cancer.

Learn More About Cancer Care at Baptist Health

For more information, please call the Baptist Health Oncology department at 1.855.645.1747. Visit our online provider directory to find a Baptist Health Oncologist near you. To prepare for your next appointment, take a Health Risk Assessment and download a patient packet.