High Risk Breast Screening Program

Young woman getting a mammogram

High-Risk Breast Cancer Screening at a Glance

What: 
Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP)

Who: 
Women aged 30 to 69 who have been confirmed to be at high-risk for breast cancer based on the following criteria: 

  • Are known to be carriers of a deleterious gene mutation (e.g. BRCA1, BRCA2)
  • Are the first degree relative of a mutation carrier (e.g. BRCA1, BRCA2) and have declined genetic testing
  • Are determined to be (less than or equal to) 25 per cent lifetime risk of breast cancer - must have been assessed using either the IBIS or BOADICA risk assessment tools, preferably at a genetics clinic.
  • Have received chest radiation before age 30 and at least eight years previously  

When:
Annually or determined by healthcare team.

How:
There is evidence that annual screening with breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in addition to mammography (MM) benefits women at high-risk. The introduction of combined MM/MRI screening into the OBSP for women aged 30-69 who are at high-risk for breast cancer will improve their quality of care, ensuring they receive the benefits of screening and promoting the early detection of breast cancer. 

Resources and Information 

  • OBSP Requisition for Hight Risk Screening
  • Genetics Assessment and Results Form
  • OBSP Guidelines Summary

OBSP High-Risk Screening Sites in the South West:

South West Regional Cancer Program (St. Joseph's Health Care London)
Phone: 1800.461.0640 
Fax: 519.432.0271

Grey Bruce Health Services
Phone: 519.376.2121 ext. 2116
Fax: 519.372.3954

Genetic Testing Contact Information

Cancer Genetics Program 
London Health Sciences Centre
Phone: 519.685.8727 
Fax: 519.685.8005

A doctor can refer patients with or without cancer, who are considered to be at-risk for an inherited cancer to the Cancer Genetics Clinic by calling or faxing your request. Office hours are 8:00 am - 4:00 pm, Monday to Friday.