Table 1:

Tools for assessing risk of breast cancer

ToolFactors includedOutcomes calculatedValidatedComments
National Cancer Institute breast cancer risk assessment tool (Gail model)*

  • Age

  • Age at menarche

  • Age at first live birth

  • Number of first-degree relatives with breast cancer

  • Race/ethnicity

  • Previous breast biopsies

    • - No

    • - Presence of atypical hyperplasia

  • Estimated 5-yr risk

  • Estimated lifetime risk

Yes7Performs poorly when patient has substantial family history
International Breast Cancer Intervention Society risk evaluation tool†

  • Age

  • Height and weight

  • Age at menarche and menopause

  • Use and duration of hormone replacement therapy

  • Detailed family history

    • - First- and second-degree relatives

    • - Age of onset

    • - Bilateral breast cancer

    • - Ovarian cancer

  • Previous breast biopsies

    • - Hyperplasia/atypia/lobular carcinoma in situ

  • Estimated 10-yr risk

  • Estimated lifetime risk

Yes (but median follow-up < 6 yr)8