Myriad Genetics survey shows breast cancer risk factors are misunderstood

Myriad Genetics announced results from a nationwide survey revealing breast density and family health history are two misunderstood breast cancer risk factors. The Myriad Genetics Cancer Risk Survey found that nearly half of the women surveyed do not know what breast density is, and 50% are unsure if breast density has anything to do with breast cancer risk. Women with dense breasts are up to four times more likely to develop breast cancer compared to women without dense breasts. In addition, higher-density tissue can make it more difficult to detect breast masses or cancer during a mammogram and may require additional imaging tests. The Federal Drug Administration recently updated mammography regulations, requiring mammography facilities to notify patients about the density of their breasts by September 2024. Additionally, few women feel like they have all the medical information they need from their mother’s side and father’s side to better understand their breast cancer risk. “Our survey revealed there is critical work that needs to be done to help women better understand how family history and breast density, in addition to other key factors, play into their overall breast cancer risk,” said Melissa Gonzales, President of Women’s Health, Myriad Genetics. “Having open conversations with your family and OB-GYN, and getting annual mammograms, are essential in breaking down these critical awareness gaps and staying on top of your breast health. For women with elevated risk factors, genetic testing can be a helpful tool that provides a cancer risk assessment personalized to them.”