Connected tumors: Relationship and risk determinants for breast and ovarian cancer
Breast and ovarian cancers share significant genetic links, particularly in individuals carrying mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. These genetic factors increase the risk of both cancers, with carriers having a higher lifetime risk.
A connection between the two cancers is also established through shared risk factors such as older age, being overweight, never carrying a pregnancy to full term, and a family history of either cancer. Some of these risk factors may be manageable, such as maintaining a moderate weight.
Individuals who have had breast cancer may face an increased risk of ovarian cancer, notably if the breast cancer involves genetic mutations. Research suggests that such individuals are roughly twice as likely to develop ovarian cancer. Similarly, ovarian cancer patients may have a 1.6-fold increased risk of subsequent breast cancer, with variation depending on the time since the initial diagnosis.
Beyond shared genetic and lifestyle factors, other genetic mutations like Lynch Syndrome and those in genes such as BRIP1, RAD51C, and RAD51D can also increase ovarian cancer risk, albeit less commonly with breast cancer.
Regular screenings and preventive measures are crucial for those at higher risk. Healthcare professionals may recommend regular mammograms, breast MRI scans, pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and CA-125 blood tests. Genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and other relevant mutations is also essential for effective monitoring and prevention.
For those carrying genetic mutations, prophylactic surgeries might be considered to prevent the occurrence or spread of cancer. Modifiable risk factors such as maintaining a moderate weight, regular exercise, limiting alcohol intake, and discussing contraception options with a doctor may also help reduce the risk.
Approximately 10% of families with ovarian and breast cancer are known to have BRCA1 gene mutations, while around 20% have BRCA2 mutations. Other common risk factors include older age, family history, obesity, and never having children.
A 2020 observational study suggests that people with both primary breast cancer and primary ovarian cancer have relatively favorable 5- and 10-year overall survival rates of around 90%. Outlook varies based on factors such as a person's age during diagnosis and the time between the two cancers.
Individuals should speak with a doctor if they experience signs or symptoms of breast or ovarian cancer, especially with a personal or family history of these diseases. Early detection and prompt treatment are vital for improving outcomes.
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People with ovarian cancer may have an increased risk of breast, bladder, bile duct, colorectal, acute leukemia, and melanoma of the eye. Breast cancer can metastasize to the ovaries, but it is relatively uncommon. Those at high risk of ovarian cancer include those with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, a family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer, Lynch syndrome, endometriosis, never being pregnant, having a late first pregnancy, and being over 40 years old.
In summary, the strong link between breast and ovarian cancers primarily stems from shared genetic mutations, particularly in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Regular screenings, preventive measures, and early detection are crucial for those at higher risk, as well as managing modifiable risk factors.
- Individuals carrying mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes have a higher lifetime risk of both breast and ovarian cancers.
- A family history of either cancer is a shared risk factor for breast and ovarian cancers.
- Those who have had breast cancer may have an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer, particularly if the breast cancer involves genetic mutations.
- Ovarian cancer patients may have a 1.6-fold increased risk of subsequent breast cancer.
- Other genetic mutations like Lynch Syndrome and those in genes such as BRIP1, RAD51C, and RAD51D can also increase ovarian cancer risk.
- Regular screenings, mammograms, breast MRI scans, pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and CA-125 blood tests are essential for those at higher risk.
- Genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and other relevant mutations is crucial for effective monitoring and prevention.
- Prophylactic surgeries might be considered to prevent the occurrence or spread of cancer.
- Approximately 10% of families with ovarian and breast cancer have BRCA1 gene mutations, while around 20% have BRCA2 mutations.
- People with ovarian cancer may have an increased risk of various cancers like breast, bladder, bile duct, colorectal, acute leukemia, and melanoma of the eye.
- Managing modifiable risk factors such as maintaining a moderate weight, regular exercise, limiting alcohol intake, and discussing contraception options with a doctor may also help reduce the risk.
