Link between Breast and Ovarian Cancer: Identified Risk Factors
Breast and ovarian cancers, two forms of malignancy frequently observed together, share significant genetic links and risk factors, primarily associated with hereditary genetic mutations.
Shared Genetic Links
The most well-known genetic risk factors for both breast and ovarian cancers are BRCA1 and BRCA2, with mutations in these genes significantly increasing the risk of developing one or both cancers. While BRCA1 mutations are associated with a higher risk of ovarian cancer, BRCA2 mutations tend to be linked more to breast cancer. Additionally, other genes, such as PALB2, CHEK2, and ATM, are also associated with increased risks of either cancer.[1][4]
Shared Risk Factors
A family history of either breast or ovarian cancer increases the risk for both cancers, often due to inherited genetic mutations.[2][4] Lifestyle factors, while not as direct, contribute to increased cancer risks in general, though they are not as strongly linked to ovarian cancer as they are to some other cancers.[3] Reproductive factors like early menarche, late menopause, and never having children can increase the risk of breast cancer, although they are not as strongly linked to ovarian cancer. Having a first child after age 35 can increase the risk of ovarian cancer.[2]
Clinical Recommendations
Individuals with a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer are advised to consider genetic testing to assess their risk.[2][4] For those diagnosed with genetic mutations, regular screening and surveillance are recommended to detect cancers early. In cases of high-risk genetic mutations, risk reduction strategies like prophylactic mastectomy or salpingo-oophorectomy may be considered.[4]
Connected Risks and Outlook
A person who has had breast cancer may have an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer, particularly if the breast cancer has links to genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2.[1] On the other hand, those with ovarian cancer have an increased risk of developing breast cancer, often due to genetic mutations as well. People with both cancers have a relatively favorable outlook, with overall survival rates of around 90% for 5 and 10 years, but the prognosis can be influenced by various factors.[2]
When to Seek Medical Advice
If signs or symptoms of either breast or ovarian cancer appear, especially in individuals with a personal or family history of these diseases, it is essential to speak with a doctor. Staying vigilant for signs of recurrence or a second cancer after a previous diagnosis is crucial for early detection and prompt treatment.[2]
Additional Resources
For further evidence-based information and resources on cancer, visit our dedicated hub.
Frequently Asked Questions
People with ovarian cancer may have an increased risk of breast cancer and other cancers, such as bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, colorectal cancer, acute leukemia, and melanoma of the eye. In rare cases, breast cancer can metastasize to the ovaries, typically developing in people with advanced breast cancer and hormone receptor-positive cancers or those with BRCA mutations.[3]
Those at high risk of ovarian cancer include individuals 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 age over 40 years.[3]
- BRCA1 and BRCA2, two significant genetic risk factors for both breast and ovarian cancers, are linked to a higher probability of developing one or both of these malignancies.
- A family history of either breast or ovarian cancer can signify an increased risk for both types of cancer, often due to inherited genetic mutations.
- Genetic testing is recommended for individuals with a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer to assess their risk.
- Those diagnosed with genetic mutations may require regular screening and surveillance for early detection of cancers.
- A person who has had breast cancer may have an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer, particularly if the breast cancer has links to genetic mutations.
- Risk reduction strategies like prophylactic mastectomy or salpingo-oophorectomy might be considered for high-risk genetic mutation cases.
