Non-invasive breast test identifies potential cancer risks

By Rebecca Wass / Barton Health
According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer affects 1 out of 8 women. This is a growing concern, since many breast cancers are found after the disease has been developing for years. Tahoe Women's Care is the region's only OB/GYN practice to offer the HALO® breast test. Designed to detect abnormal cells HALO® may help identify precancerous breast cells up to eight years earlier than might be found on a mammogram.

Breast cancers typically originate in the ductal system. According the New England Journal of Medicine "benign breast disease, which begins as abnormal cells, is an important risk factor for breast cancer. A woman with atypical cells has a four to five time greater risk of developing breast cancer than women who do not produce fluid."

Breast fluid cytology - the science of studying cells - has been used for years to identify high risk women in research. Before this system was developed, there was no practical way to test the general population. This non-invasive tool to collects breast fluid in minutes and Tahoe Women's Care recommends all women age 25 and older have this test. Using a combination of warmth, massage and suction, the HALO® test uses adjustable breast cups to collect fluid.

The HALO® test does not replace mammography or self exam, but identifies high-risk women. About half of all women won¹t secrete fluid, which puts them in the lowest risk category. For those who do and have abnormal cells, Tahoe Women¹s Care will monitor them closely and recommend the appropriate course of action.

Tahoe Women's Care is offering the HALO® test for $50 through the months of October and November in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness month in October and has extended the discount through November due to last year¹s overwhelming demand. The HALO® test is not covered by insurance. Your insurance may or may not cover the cytology that will be sent to an outside laboratory, so additional outside charges may occur. Located in South Lake Tahoe on Fourth Street and in Carson City on Mica Drive, HALO® breast test is performed at both Tahoe Women¹s Care locations. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (530) 544-8333, (775) 267-6700 or visit www.bartonhealth.org/HALO.