Headlines - Pink October 2014 – Screening Tailored to Each Woman’s Risk Level

For the tenth year, October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. One in eight women will be affected by breast cancer in her lifetime. Today, screening is an effective weapon against this cancer. When detected at an early stage, breast cancer can not only be cured in more than 90% of cases but also treated with less aggressive, less invasive methods that result in fewer side effects. Ten years after the launch of the organized breast cancer screening program, participation has plateaued. This year, the campaign targets women eligible for organized screening (those with “moderate” risk), as well as women at increased risk—classified as “high” or “very high”—of breast cancer:

• “Moderate” risk level: The risk of developing breast cancer is primarily linked to age (50 and older) and the fact of being a woman. For women between the ages of 50 and 74 who do not have any specific risk factors: a clinical breast exam and a mammogram every two years.

• "High" risk level: Women with certain specific risk factors, such as a personal or close family history of breast cancer or breast disease, or who have undergone high-dose radiation therapy to the chest, are considered to be at "high risk." A genetic counseling consultation may be recommended for them based on a detailed analysis of their situation. They are subject to specific follow-up guidelines outlined in a recommendation published by the French National Authority for Health (HAS) in May 2014. They are not included in the national organized screening program.

• "Very high" risk level: Women who carry a BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutation have an increased risk of developing breast and/or ovarian cancer. These women are subject to specific follow-up, defined by recommendations developed by INCa, which are currently being updated.