Individualized risk assessment with NAF.

The finding of cellular atypia has been shown to be associated with increased risk for breast cancer.  Obtained by a number of techniques, cells for the breast ducts provide evidence of what may happen in the next few years.  The finding doesn't diagnose cancer, but is an approved screening tool.   Cells may be obtained for examination by several techniques: open surgical biopsy, fine needle aspiration (FNA), ductal lavage or nipple aspirate fluid (NAF).  


The least invasive, most patient-tolerant and comfortable (88% of those who have had the study would recommend it to a friend) is the HALO Breast Pap Test, a fully automated 5 minute office procedure, using a device similar to a breast pump.  The nipple aspirate fluid (NAF) obtained is then sent for pathological analysis.  


Many studies have shown consistently increased numbers of breast cancers in those with abnormal fluid.  Specifically, the finding of hyperplastic cells has a 2.5-fold increased risk for breast cancer in the next few years.  Atypical cells increase the risk to 5-fold and atypical cells plus a family history have demonstrated an 11-fold increase in breast cancers.  You may read more about the simple non-invasive procedure at www.owenwinsettmd.com or   http://www.neomatrix.com/halonaf/NAF-Collection.aspx. 


Finding the women at greatest risk before the cancer ever happens allows earlier intervention and better outcome!  The HALO is part of the puzzle to learn individual risk.


I recommend this test for asymptomatic women ages 21 to 55 years old.






Together we can prevent 75,000 breast cancers each year!