Connection between Breast Cancer and Ovarian Cancer: Key Linkages and Risk Factors
Breast and ovarian cancers share a strong genetic link, primarily due to mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. These genetic abnormalities increase an individual's risk of developing both cancers.
The connection between the two cancers extends to other risk factors as well. These include older age, being overweight or obese, never carrying a pregnancy to term, and a family history of either cancer. However, some of these risk factors are modifiable, such as maintaining a moderate weight and regular exercise.
Individuals with a history of breast cancer have an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer. This risk is particularly significant if the breast cancer has a genetic connection, such as mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2. On average, people with a history of breast cancer are twice as likely to develop subsequent primary ovarian cancer. Conversely, people with ovarian cancer may have a 1.6-fold increased risk of subsequent breast cancer.
Apart from breast and ovarian cancers, people with ovarian cancer may also have an increased risk of developing other cancers, such as bladder, bile duct, colorectal, acute leukemia, and melanoma of the eye.
Breast cancer can metastasize, or spread, to the ovaries. While this is relatively uncommon, it may be more likely in hormone receptor-positive breast cancers or those with BRCA mutations. People 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, or being age 40 or older.
People can work with their healthcare team to manage their risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer through monitoring, lifestyle changes, and preventive medical procedures. For those carrying genetic mutations, prophylactic surgeries may be considered to prevent the occurrence or spread of cancer.
Regular screenings, such as mammograms, breast MRI scans, pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and CA-125 blood tests, can help detect any new cancers early. Genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and other relevant mutations is a crucial strategy for monitoring and prevention.
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, around 90%. The outlook tends to be more positive when the interval between the two diseases is longer. However, ovarian cancer following breast cancer is often diagnosed at a later stage, which can negatively affect survival. A person's age during their first cancer diagnosis and the time between the two cancers are significant predictors of overall survival.
It is crucial for people to speak with a doctor if signs or symptoms of breast or ovarian cancer appear, especially if they have a personal or family history of these diseases. Staying vigilant for signs of recurrence or a second cancer after a previous diagnosis is essential for improving outcomes.
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- Breast and ovarian cancers share a strong genetic link, often due to mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which increase an individual's risk of developing both cancers.
- People with a history of breast cancer have an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer, particularly if the breast cancer has a genetic connection like BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations.
- Apart from breast and ovarian cancers, people with ovarian cancer may also have an increased risk of developing other cancers, such as bladder, bile duct, colorectal, acute leukemia, and melanoma of the eye.
- Breast cancer can metastasize, or spread, to the ovaries, which may be more likely in hormone receptor-positive breast cancers or those with BRCA mutations.
- People 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, or being age 40 or older.
- People can work with their healthcare team to manage their risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer through monitoring, lifestyle changes, and preventive medical procedures, with prophylactic surgeries being considered for those carrying genetic mutations.
