Connection between Breast and Ovarian Cancer: Common Risk Factors and Associated Links
The Connection Between Breast and Ovarian Cancer: An Unveiling
There's a robust connection between breast cancer and ovarian cancer, largely owing to shared genetic factors. The association is most striking in individuals carrying mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
Breast and ovarian cancers share various underlying genetic risk factors. People with these risk factors may possibly develop both cancers.
Aside from genetics, other risk factors such as advanced age, excess weight, and never carrying a pregnancy to term may increase the chances of both cancers. Some of these risk factors can be influenced by making lifestyle changes.
Breast Cancer and the Risk of Ovarian Cancer
Research suggests that people who have battled breast cancer may be at a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer. This elevated risk is linked to inherited genetic mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2 rather than the disease itself [source]. Women with breast cancer are approximately twice as likely to develop subsequent primary ovarian cancer.
On the other hand, those with ovarian cancer have a 1.6-fold increased risk of subsequent breast cancer, although the risk varies based on the time since their first cancer diagnosis [source]. Women with ovarian cancer also have an increased risk of developing breast cancer, which may be due to genetic mutations.
Other Shared Risk Factors
Besides BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, other common risk factors for both breast and ovarian cancers include a family history of either cancer, older age, obesity, having a first child at an older age, never having children, not breastfeeding, hormone therapy after menopause, and Lynch syndrome [source].
Around 70-85% of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer cases are attributed to BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations [source].
Can People Reduce the Risk?
Some risk factors, like having a history of breast or ovarian cancer, are unalterable. Nevertheless, monitoring these unchangeable risk factors, incorporating lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, preventive medical procedures, may be crucial in management.
Modifiable Risk Factors
Manageable risk factors include attaining and maintaining a moderate weight, regular exercise, restraining alcohol intake, and discussing oral contraceptive options with a doctor to weigh the risks based on the circumstances.
Outlook
A 2020 observational study suggests that people diagnosed with both primary breast cancer and primary ovarian cancer have relatively optimistic 5- and 10-year overall survival rates, around 90% [source]. The outlook is generally more promising when the time gap between the two diseases is larger, but ovarian cancer following breast cancer is often found at a later stage, potentially affecting survival.
When to Speak with a Doctor
If individuals experience signs or symptoms of breast or ovarian cancer, particularly in the wake of a personal or family history of these cancers, it's crucial to consult a doctor. Vigilance is essential for early detection and prompt treatment, which can significantly improve outcomes.
Resources for Cancer Information
For more evidence-based information and resources regarding cancer, visit our dedicated hub.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Ovarian cancer may heighten the risk of various cancers, including breast cancer, bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, colorectal cancer, acute leukemia, and eye melanoma.
- Breast cancer can metastasize (spread) to the ovaries, although it occurs less frequently, typically in people with advanced breast cancer or hormone receptor-positive tumors, or those with BRCA mutations.
- Individuals at high risk of ovarian cancer may have BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, a family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer, Lynch syndrome, endometriosis, never having been pregnant, a late first pregnancy, or are over 40 years old [source].
Summary
There's a strong connection between breast cancer and ovarian cancer, primarily due to genetic risk factors, particularly in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Shared preventive measures, like genetic counseling, screening, and surveillance, are crucial in managing the risk for those with a family history or genetic predisposition.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK202484/[2] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-019-1163-5[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3754364/[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2669342/[5] https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1758835917703295
- Individuals carrying mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are at a higher risk of developing both breast cancer and ovarian cancer.
- People with shared genetic risk factors for breast and ovarian cancers may have a significant risk of developing both cancers.
- Besides genetics, other risk factors such as advanced age, excess weight, and never carrying a pregnancy to term can increase the chances of developing breast and ovarian cancer.
- Women with breast cancer have roughly twice the risk of developing subsequent primary ovarian cancer, while women with ovarian cancer have a 1.6-fold increased risk of subsequent breast cancer.
- Apart from BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, other common risk factors for both breast and ovarian cancer include a family history, older age, obesity, hormone therapy after menopause, and Lynch syndrome.
- Some manageable risk factors include attaining and maintaining a moderate weight, regular exercise, moderating alcohol consumption, and discussing options for oral contraceptives with a doctor.
