Decision Support for Breast Cancer

This trial explores whether electronic tools can assist women at high risk for breast cancer and their doctors in using medications like tamoxifen to reduce that risk. The study tests if these tools can integrate into regular medical care. Women aged 40 to 79 at high risk for breast cancer, such as those with specific genetic markers or past medical conditions, might be suitable candidates. Participants will either receive standard educational materials or access a web-based decision aid, called RealRisks Decision Aid, which provides personalized risk assessments and action plans. As an unphased trial, this study allows participants to contribute to innovative approaches in preventive care.

A previous study found that women at high risk for breast cancer found the RealRisks decision-aid tool helpful. Participants received the tool well, indicating its ease and safety of use. No reports of harmful side effects have emerged from using the RealRisks tool. This online tool helps individuals understand their breast cancer risk and make informed prevention choices. By providing information and reminders through the web, it is unlikely to cause physical harm. Instead, it supports decision-making about taking preventive medications like tamoxifen, which have established safety records. Overall, the RealRisks tool is considered safe for assisting with these decisions.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about the RealRisks decision aid because it offers a personalized approach to breast cancer prevention that current standard options don't provide. Unlike traditional educational materials, RealRisks combines standard information with a web-based tool that assesses individual breast cancer and cardiovascular risks. It includes educational modules tailored to the user's specific risk factors and helps create a personalized action plan. This means individuals get more relevant and actionable insights, potentially leading to better prevention strategies.

Research has shown that tools like RealRisks, which participants in this trial may use, can increase the use of medications such as tamoxifen, reducing breast cancer risk by up to 50%. One study found that tamoxifen reduced breast cancer risk by 80% in women with atypical hyperplasia (a condition where cells grow abnormally) and by 50% in those with a high risk according to the Gail model. The RealRisks decision aid, which provides personalized risk assessments and action plans, effectively increases the use of preventive medications among women at high risk for breast cancer. Additionally, almost all users found the decision aid easy to use, making it a practical tool for supporting informed decisions.¹³⁶⁷⁸