Key steps for effective breast cancer prevention

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Preventive Medicine
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Breast cancer incidence continues to rise globally, representing a significant disease burden for women worldwide.
• Current incidence affects 1 in 20 women globally, and up to 1 in 8 in high-income nations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the need for combined population-based and precision-prevention strategies to reduce breast cancer incidence.
• To emphasize the importance of risk assessment models and targeted interventions for high-risk women.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing research on breast cancer risk factors, assessment models, and preventive interventions.
• Discussion of the challenges and opportunities in implementing risk-reducing medications and novel preventive strategies.

Main Results:

• Validated risk assessment models exist and are improving with new factors like polygenic risk and mammographic density.
• Evidence-based risk-reducing medications are available and recommended but face implementation challenges.

Conclusions:

• Reducing breast cancer incidence requires a dual approach: minimizing modifiable risk factors and employing precision prevention.
• Addressing barriers to medication uptake and adherence is essential for effective breast cancer prevention.