Women’s Cancer Prevention Program

Women who are at increased risk of breast, ovarian, colon and other cancers can find support, guidance and sound medical care from a team of nationally-recognized prevention experts at the Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center.

By helping you understand your risk of cancer, or a recurrence of cancer, we can work with you to create individualized cancer prevention strategies. These can include screening tests, surgical interventions, medications and simple steps such as lifestyle changes.

Because the UConn Health Center is a university hospital, we can draw upon many resources and research strengths to help you develop a lifelong cancer prevention plan.

Our Services

Medical Management
Women over age 55 who have had previous breast biopsies or younger women who have had previous breast biopsies, as well as relatives with breast cancer, may benefit from two FDA-approved medications to lower their breast cancer risk. Richard Everson, M.D., a medical oncologist and director of prevention programs at the Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center, specializes in the ongoing management of these medications: tamoxifen and raloxifene (also known as Evista.)

High Risk and Hereditary Cancers
Although, most cancers are not hereditary, about 10 percent of breast cancer, and other cancers, can be linked to genetic or familial patterns. The new Cancer Prevention Program for Women offers complete care for women who have questions about their family history of breast cancer or other cancers.

Services include a very strong genetic counseling and testing program, offered by experienced genetic counselors. Working with the genetic specialists is Molly Brewer, M.D., the director of gynecologic oncology, who helps women make decisions about how to lower their cancer risk, including risk-reducing surgery.

The program also includes experts in cancer prevention, screening, and treatment, as well as opportunities to participate in today’s most promising clinical trials.