High-Risk Breast Cancer Program
Breast cancer is most treatable when caught early — and for women at elevated risk, early detection requires more than a standard annual mammogram. SCOA’s High-Risk Breast Cancer Program is designed to identify breast cancer before it starts, or find it at its earliest and most treatable stage, through personalized screening, expert genetic counseling, and an ongoing relationship with our care team. Whether you were referred by your doctor or are reaching out on your own, we’re here to help you understand your risk and build a plan around it.
Am I at High Risk for Breast Cancer?
- A strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer
- A first-degree relative (mother, sister, or daughter) diagnosed with breast cancer
- A personal or family history of a BRCA1, BRCA2, or other hereditary cancer gene mutation
- A prior breast biopsy showing atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH) or lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS)
- Dense breast tissue identified on a previous mammogram
- A calculated lifetime breast cancer risk of 20% or greater
- Early menstruation, late menopause, or other hormone-related risk factors
- Prior chest radiation therapy before age 30
You do not need a physician referral to schedule an evaluation. If you believe you may be at high risk, contact our team directly at (803) 461-3000 or request an appointment online.
Your Care Journey at SCOA’s High-Risk Breast Clinic
1. Referral or Self-Identification
2. Personalized Risk Review
3. High-Risk Clinic Visit
You’ll meet with our oncology team to discuss your risk assessment results and create a personalized screening and prevention plan tailored to you.
4. Genetic Testing (If Needed)
Some patients benefit from genetic testing to identify hereditary mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 that can guide care decisions. Learn more about Genetic Counseling at SCOA.
5. Enhanced Screening
6. Risk-Reduction Options
7. Ongoing Support & Follow-Up
Our team stays connected with you through regular visits, reminders, and access to SCOA’s Social Work and Support Services.
8. Rapid Care If Cancer Is Found
If cancer is detected, you transition seamlessly into SCOA’s full spectrum of expert oncology care — all under one roof in Columbia. No referrals to outside facilities. No starting over.
Services Available Through Our High-Risk Program
Breast MRI and Advanced Imaging
For women at elevated risk, breast MRI can detect cancers that mammograms alone may miss. SCOA’s services are available on-site at our Columbia location.
Genetic Counseling and Testing
SCOA partners with board-certified genetic counselors from USC and Prisma Health to provide hereditary cancer risk assessments, genetic testing coordination, and result interpretation. Learn more about Genetic Counseling at SCOA.
Risk-Reduction Medications
Preventative medications such as tamoxifen or raloxifene may significantly reduce breast cancer risk for eligible high-risk women. Our oncologists will discuss whether this option is appropriate for you.
Lifestyle Counseling
Our care team, including SCOA’s Social Work and Support Services, can help you understand how diet, exercise, alcohol intake, and other lifestyle factors affect your breast cancer risk.
Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
If cancer is found, SCOA provides immediate access to Medical Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Chemotherapy, and more — all without needing to travel to a separate facility.
Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tools
Use these free, clinically validated tools to better understand your risk before or after your visit:
- Susan G. Komen — Breast Cancer Risk Factors
- NCI Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Calculator
- About the NCI Breast Cancer Risk Tool
Patient Guide: Download and share SCOA’s High-Risk Breast Cancer Program overview PDF with your care team or family members.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While many patients are referred by their primary care physician or gynecologist, you can also contact SCOA directly. Call (803) 461-3000 or request an appointment online and our team will help determine if this program is right for you.
Ready to understand your risk?
SCOA’s High-Risk Breast Cancer Program is accepting new patients in Columbia and Sumter, SC — with or without a referral.
