Frequently asked questions

Personalised Breast Cancer Prevention is an approach to understanding and reducing your risk of breast cancer. It takes into account your genetics and comparisons to women of similar age and ethnicity to provide tailored screening recommendations and risk management strategies.

Current breast cancer screening programmes, such as the NHS Breast Screening Programme, are primarily age-based and may not consider individual risk levels. Personalised breast cancer prevention allows for:

• More accurate risk assessment, so those at higher risk can start screening earlier.
• Optimised screening recommendations, avoiding unnecessary procedures for those at lower risk.
• Proactive steps to reduce risk, including lifestyle and health interventions.

Personalised prevention is beneficial for:

• Women aged 30–49, who may not yet qualify for NHS screening but want to understand their risk and take preventive steps.
• Women aged 50–75, who want a more tailored approach beyond standard NHS screening intervals.
• Women with a family history of breast cancer, even if they have not been recommended for genetic testing under current guidelines.
• Women concerned about their breast cancer risk, looking for a personalised screening and prevention plan.

No, this complements national screening programmes by providing personalised risk-based recommendations. Some women may need earlier or more frequent screenings, while others may require less intensive monitoring.

Your breast cancer risk is influenced by:

• Genetics (polygenic risk scores and family history).
• Age and ethnicity (as breast cancer risk varies across populations).
• Breast density (which can affect both risk and screening effectiveness).

Risk assessment includes:

• Personal and family medical history.
• Genetic analysis using polygenic risk scores (PRS).
• Comparison to women of similar age and ethnicity, followed by comparison to those aged 50 to contextualise the risk.

This method provides a more precise estimate of your breast cancer risk than general population statistics.

If you are identified as higher risk, your prevention plan may recommend:

• Earlier or more frequent screenings (e.g., starting mammograms before age 50 or using MRI for better detection).
• Preventative lifestyle modifications (such as diet, exercise, and weight management).
• Additional medical consultations (such as specialist referrals or risk-reducing medication options).

Even with a lower risk, routine screenings remain important. Your prevention plan may suggest:

• Standard screening intervals based on NHS guidelines.
• Continued lifestyle awareness to maintain a lower risk profile.

A Polygenic Risk Score (PRS) assesses thousands of common genetic variants to estimate overall genetic risk for developing breast cancer. Unlike rare genetic mutations, PRS evaluates the combined effect of many genetic factors that influence risk in the general population.

• BRCA1/2 tests are not routine genetic tests—they are only performed in specific cases, such as when there is a strong family history of breast cancer. These tests are not available to all women via public healthcare.
• BRCA1/2 mutations are rare, occurring in 0.2–0.3% of women in the general population.
• PRS evaluates common genetic variations that influence breast cancer risk for all women, not just those with a strong family history.

Yes, a genetic risk assessment can provide valuable insights into whether you have an elevated genetic risk. However, even women without a strong family history may benefit from genetic risk assessments to personalise their screening and prevention strategy.

Your personalised prevention plan may include recommendations such as:

• Regular physical activity to maintain a healthy weight.
• A balanced diet rich in whole foods, fibre, and healthy fats.
• Limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding smoking.
• Understanding hormonal influences (such as the impact of birth control and HRT).

Yes, research shows that up to 30% of breast cancer cases can be prevented through lifestyle changes, making risk-based prevention strategies highly effective.

In the UK, NHS breast cancer screening starts at age 50, with mammograms offered every three years. Some countries start earlier, and there is ongoing debate in the UK about lowering the age for routine screening.

For women identified as higher risk, starting screening earlier or having more frequent exams (such as annual mammograms or MRI) may be recommended.

Your personalised prevention plan may recommend:

• Mammograms (standard screening method).
• Breast MRI scans (for women at higher genetic risk).
• Clinical breast exams and self-examinations.

Screening frequency depends on your individual risk level:

• Higher-risk individuals: May need annual mammograms or MRIs.
• Moderate-risk individuals: Every 1–2 years, depending on recommendations.
• Lower-risk individuals: May follow standard NHS screening schedules.

• Undergo genetic testing.
• Complete a risk assessment questionnaire (online or with a healthcare provider).
• Receive a detailed risk report with personalised screening and prevention recommendations.
• Discuss next steps with a healthcare provider if needed.

Currently, the NHS does not fund genetic-based personalised breast cancer prevention services. You should consult with your private health insurer to determine if genetic testing and additional screenings are covered under your policy.

Breast cancer in men is very rare and typically occurs in those with a strong family history and genetic risk factors (such as BRCA mutations). Our Breast Cancer Prevention services are calibrated for women only.

However, personalised cancer prevention strategies for prostate and colorectal cancer can provide significant benefits for men, helping them optimise their screening and prevention strategies.