What you’ll learn

Confused about when to start breast cancer screening, what breast density means, or whether you need genetic testing? Inova’s Dr. Kaltman explains risk, red-flags, and next steps—so you know which care to choose and how personalized risk assessments are reshaping early detection.

Featured guest:

Dr. Rebecca Kaltman

Executive Director

Inova Saville Cancer Screening and Prevention Center

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Key takeaways with chapter markers

• How age, family history (maternal & paternal), and red flags guide screening (13:50)
• What dense breasts mean and when to add supplemental imaging (19:06)
• When to consider genetic counseling/testing and how group sessions work (5:06)
• Where primary care fits for lifestyle/metabolic risk and referrals (8:21)
• Imaging choices (mammogram, MRI, ultrasound, contrast-enhanced) (10:04)
• Mobile screening (23:45)
• Multi-cancer blood test clinical trial at Inova (24:52)

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FAQs

When should most women start screening?
Most begin at age 40, but earlier for higher-risk patients (often 10 years before the youngest family diagnosis). Ask your Primary Care doctor/OB-GYN for a formal risk assessment.

Do dense breasts change my screening plan?
Possibly. Dense tissue can mask findings on mammography; your clinician may recommend supplemental imaging (e.g., MRI; ultrasound or contrast-enhanced mammography when appropriate).

Who should consider genetic counseling/testing?
Anyone with strong family history (maternal or paternal), early cancers, or unknown history. Testing now uses multi-gene panels and is far more accessible than in the past.

Are self-breast exams still recommended?
Be breast-aware and know your normal, but routine self-exams alone are not enough. Report new changes (lump, nipple retraction, rash, contour change).

Can lifestyle changes reduce risk?
Yes—weight, activity, and nutrition matter. Primary care can connect you with dietitians/health coaching and, when needed, medical weight-loss support.