Link Between Breast Cancer and Ovarian Cancer: Identified Risk Factors
Tracing the Connection: Breast and ovarian cancer are tightly interlinked, primarily due to shared genetic factors. The bond is especially potent in individuals harboring mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes [1][2].
Having breast cancer may mean a raised probability of ovarian cancer, particularly if the breast cancer is connected to genetic mutations of BRCA1 or BRCA2. This hike in risk is linked to underlying genetic factors rather than the disease itself [3]. Research indicates that cancer survivors are almost twice as likely to develop subsequent primary ovarian cancer [3].
Similarly, those diagnosed with ovarian cancer may have a 1.6-fold enhanced risk of subsequent breast cancer, although the risk varies based on the time elapsed since the initial diagnosis [2]. Due to their genetic links, individuals with ovarian cancer may also have a higher risk of breast cancer [2].
Risk Factors:
- Genetic Mutations: Inherited mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are the dominating shared risk factors. Approximately 55% of families with ovarian and breast cancer have BRCA1 gene mutations, while around 20% have BRCA2 mutations [1].
- Family History: Family history of either breast or ovarian cancer boosts the risk for both cancers [4].
- Age: Although age is more often associated with breast cancer, advanced age is also a risk factor for ovarian cancer [4].
- Weight: Achieving and maintaining a moderate weight reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancer [2].
- Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity lowers the risk of breast cancer, and limited evidence supports a connection with ovarian cancer too [2].
- Alcohol: Slashing alcohol intake lessens the risk of breast cancer [2].
- Oral Contraceptives: Oral contraceptives may lower the risk of ovarian cancer, but they may slightly boost the risk of breast cancer [2].
Managing the Risks: Some risk factors, like having a previous breast or ovarian cancer, are unalterable. However, these factors can be managed through careful monitoring, lifestyle changes, and sometimes preventive medical procedures.
Healthcare professionals might recommend more frequent and thorough screenings for individuals with a history of either breast or ovarian cancer, including regular mammograms, breast MRI scans, pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and CA-125 blood tests [2].
Genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and other relevant mutations are the best strategies for monitoring, prevention, and early detection [2]. For those carrying genetic mutations, doctors might consider additional options like prophylactic surgeries.
Outlook:
A 2020 observational study suggests that people with both primary breast and ovarian cancer enjoy relatively favorable outcomes, with 5- and 10-year overall survival rates approximately reaching 90%. However, ovarian cancer following breast cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, affecting survival [4].
When to Seek Medical Advice:
Individuals should consult a doctor if they experience signs or symptoms of breast or ovarian cancer, especially with a personal or family history of these diseases. Vigilance for signs of recurrence or a second cancer is crucial, especially after a previous diagnosis of breast or ovarian cancer.
Cancer Resources:
For more evidence-based information and resources on cancer, visit our dedicated hub [6].
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Cancers Linked to Ovarian Cancer: People with ovarian cancer may have an increased risk of other cancers, including breast cancer, bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, colorectal cancer, acute leukemia, and melanoma of the eye [4].
- Breast Cancer Metastasizing to Ovaries: Breast cancer can metastasize to the ovaries, but this is relatively uncommon. This may be more likely in breast cancers that are hormone receptor-positive or in people with BRCA mutations [1].
- High-Risk Individuals for Ovarian Cancer: Those who have a 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 age over 40 years [4].
Summary:
There is a robust genetic link between breast cancer and ovarian cancer, particularly through shared mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes [1]. People with these mutations have a significantly higher risk of developing both cancers.
Individuals with a family history, a personal history, or advanced age may have an enhanced risk of either cancer. Regular screenings and preventive measures are essential for early detection and improved outcomes for those at higher risk.
[1] https://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/breast-cancer-ova-reproductive-cancers.html[2] https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/heredity/brca-fact-sheet[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6356087/[4] https://www.cancer.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/risk-factors-and-prevention.html[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7433004/[6] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/info/cancer-hub
- In the realm of medical-conditions, women with breast cancer might encounter an elevated risk of ovarian cancer, especially when the breast cancer is linked to BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutations.
- The science of oncology suggests that cancer survivors are almost twice as likely to develop subsequent primary ovarian cancer.
- Ovarian cancer may also lead to a 1.6-fold enhanced risk of subsequent breast cancer, although this risk varies with time since the initial diagnosis.
- Genetic mutations, particularly those in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, are the primary shared risk factors for breast and ovarian cancers, and approximately 55% of families with these cancers have BRCA1 mutations.
- Mental-health is often affected by cancer diagnoses, and individuals with a history of breast or ovarian cancer may benefit from mental health support.
- People should stay vigilant for signs of recurrence or a second cancer, especially after a previous diagnosis of breast or ovarian cancer.
- Regular screenings, such as mammograms, breast MRI scans, and CA-125 blood tests, can help in the early detection and improved outcomes for those at higher risk.
- Genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and other relevant mutations is the best strategy for monitoring, prevention, and early detection.
- Men's health and womens-health resources are invaluable for those navigating breast and ovarian cancers, and dedicated hubs can provide more evidence-based information and support.
