Which term describes abnormal growth within breast ducts that is not cancerous but increases cancer risk?

The term that describes abnormal growth within breast ducts that is not cancerous but increases cancer risk is Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia. This condition involves the presence of an increased number of cells in the ducts of the breast that appear atypical under microscopic examination. Although atypical ductal hyperplasia itself is benign, studies have shown that women with this condition may have a higher likelihood of developing breast cancer in the future.

Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia is significant in breast health, as it serves as a marker for increased risk, prompting further monitoring and preventive strategies. This is distinct from other conditions, such as Paget's Disease, which generally refers to a specific type of cancer affecting the nipple, or calcifications, which can indicate various benign conditions but do not inherently carry the same risk implications. PASH (pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia) is another benign condition of breast tissue, but it does not specifically involve the ductal growth that atypical ductal hyperplasia does. Thus, Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia is the focused answer due to its direct association with abnormal growth and increased risk for breast cancer.