Cancer risk screenings expand across Central Florida, offering patients clarity earlier

ORLANDO, Fla. — As cancer diagnoses rise among younger adults, AdventHealth is expanding access to cancer risk assessments that use AI technology across Central Florida—bringing more personalized insight into patients’ screenings earlier.

Now part of all mammography appointments across Central Florida, the GRACE (Genomics and Risk Assessment for Cancer Early Detection) Program combines personal and family health history, advanced risk models and genomic insight to help identify patients who may be at increased risk for certain cancers—before disease develops.

When Aimee DeSantis arrived for her mammogram, she didn’t expect to gain such clear insight into her cancer risk.

“The GRACE Program doesn’t just offer medical expertise, it offers peace of mind,” DeSantis said. “From start to finish, the level of care and attention made me feel supported, informed and empowered.”

Through the GRACE Program, DeSantis was identified as being at elevated risk for breast cancer, qualifying her for genetic testing, enhanced screening and care through a specialized high‑risk clinic focused on prevention and early detection.

“What sets this program apart is how personalized it is,” she said. “They looked at my genetic risk, my family history and my medical background and created a plan that felt tailored to me.”

DeSantis’ experience reflects the broader goal of the GRACE Program.

“Too often, cancer risk isn’t addressed until patients meet age‑based screening criteria or already have symptoms,” said Wesley Walker, MD, vice president of Genomics and Precision Health at AdventHealth, who helped lead its development. “GRACE allows us to identify elevated risk earlier and guide patients into personalized, evidence‑based care.”

Earlier insight, built into routine care

GRACE was intentionally designed to fit seamlessly into patients’ existing care. While the program evaluates cancer risk across multiple types, mammography often serves as the entry point. During a screening or diagnostic mammogram, patients answer a brief set of questions as part of their visit. Those responses, combined with breast density calculated using AI, are entered into a validated risk assessment model.

“From the patient’s perspective, it feels no different than a typical imaging appointment,” said Clark Rogers, MD, medical director of the GRACE Program. “But it allows us to identify whether someone may be at higher risk than average and guide them toward additional screening or genetic services if appropriate.”

Currently, the GRACE Program helps determine whether patients may qualify for genetic testing associated with several cancers, including breast, ovarian, uterine, colorectal, pancreatic, gastric, prostate and melanoma.

A whole-person approach to prevention

While GRACE is rooted in advanced science, the program is built around AdventHealth’s commitment to whole‑person care.

“Cancer risk isn’t just a data point,” Dr. Walker said. “When we identify someone as high risk, our responsibility is to help them understand what that means and walk with them through what comes next.”

Every patient identified as high risk is connected with a dedicated nurse navigator who helps explain results, discuss next steps and coordinate care across the patient’s medical team.

“For many patients, this is the first time their cancer risk has ever been clearly explained,” said Ana Armstrong, nurse navigator manager for the GRACE Program. “We break the information into manageable pieces, remind them that risk does not equal diagnosis and focus on what can be done to protect their health.”

That support often helps patients move from fear to confidence, Armstrong added, especially when recommendations are tailored to individual risks, preferences and goals.

National recognition, local impact

The GRACE Program is also part of a growing national conversation around personalized cancer prevention, including a feature on a Modern Healthcare podcast.

For Central Florida patients, however, that innovation shows up in a very real way—one appointment, one conversation and one personalized plan at a time.

“This program represents what healthcare should look like today,” DeSantis said.

You can learn more about AdventHealth’s GRACE Program and schedule your appointment here.