In a group of four clients, which is identified as at risk for breast cancer?

• A. Client A
• B. Client B
• C. Client C
• D. Client D

Answer: (B)

Assessing breast cancer risk is about spotting known risk factors in a patient’s history and characteristics. When you look at a group of clients, identify the one who has indicators that increase likelihood, such as a first-degree relative with breast cancer, a known BRCA gene mutation, early menarche or late menopause, never having given birth or having a first child after age 30, dense breast tissue, prior chest radiation, or obesity and prolonged hormone therapy. The client who has one or more of these factors is considered at higher risk, which is why that option is the best choice. The other clients do not present the factors that raise risk, so they’re not identified as at risk in this context. Risk assessment informs who may need closer screening and preventive discussion, even though it does not mean cancer is present.