Connection between Breast and Ovarian Cancer: Detailed Analysis and Risk Factors
Laying It All Out: The Connection Between Breast and Ovarian Cancer
There's a clear association between breast cancer and ovarian cancer, mostly due to genetic factors. This bond is particularly strong for those carrying mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
It's a family affair. Breast and ovarian cancer share common genetic risk factors, with people who have these risk factors being more prone to both cancers. Let's delve deeper into such shared risks.
Genetic Risks Galore
- BRCA1 and BRCA2 Genes: Mutations in these genes are the key genetic risk factors linking breast and ovarian cancer. BRCA1 mutations pose a more significant risk for ovarian cancer while BRCA2 mutations heighten the risk of breast cancer[1][3][4].
- Family History: A family history of breast or ovarian cancer, especially if they occur at a young age or across generations, may suggest inherited mutations[3][5].
Lifestyle Risks To Be Mindful Of
- Age: Age is a common risk factor for both breast and ovarian cancer[1].
- Weight: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of both cancers[1].
- Reproductive Factors: Not carrying a pregnancy to term is associated with a higher risk of both breast and ovarian cancer[1].
Recognizing these shared risks is crucial for tailoring cancer screening and preventive measures for those at a higher risk.
Now, let's discuss whether these cancers escalate each other's risks.
The Dance of Risks: Breast Cancer and Ovarian Cancer
Research indicates that people who have had breast cancer may have an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer[2]. This increased risk is stronger if the breast cancer is linked to genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2. Statistics suggest that such individuals are roughly twice as likely to develop a subsequent primary ovarian cancer[2].
Conversely, those with ovarian cancer may have a 1.6-fold higher risk of subsequent breast cancer[2]. However, the risk varies depending on the time since the initial cancer diagnosis. People with ovarian cancer also have an increased risk of developing breast cancer due to genetic mutations.
Other Risks on the Horizon
Apart from BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, other shared risk factors include:
- family history of either cancer
- older age, with ovarian cancer typically occurring in people over 40 years and breast cancer in those ages 55 years or older
- overweight or obesity
- having a first child over the age of 30
- never having children
- not breastfeeding
- hormone therapy after menopause
Turn The Tide: Taking Action Against Breast and Ovarian Cancer
Some risk factors, such as having previously had breast or ovarian cancer, are unchangeable. Managing these unchangeable risk factors involves careful monitoring, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, preventive medical procedures.
People with a history of breast or ovarian cancer should undergo more frequent and thorough screenings to catch any new cancers early. This may include regular mammograms, breast MRI scans, pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and CA-125 blood tests. Genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and other relevant mutations are the best strategies for monitoring and prevention[2].
For those carrying genetic mutations, doctors may consider additional options, such as prophylactic surgeries. These procedures, which involve removing organs or tissues to prevent cancer, can help reduce the risk of cancer occurrence or spread.
There are modifiable risk factors as well. These include:
- weight: Maintaining a moderate weight can help reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Obesity may cause higher estrogen levels, which can raise the risk of breast cancer.
- regular exercise: Regular physical activity can lower the risk of breast cancer. Limited evidence also supports a link between exercise and a lower risk of ovarian cancer.
- alcohol: Reducing alcohol intake can reduce the risk of breast cancer. alcohol is directly related to the risk of breast cancer.
- oral contraceptives: Oral contraceptives may lower the risk of ovarian cancer. However, they may slightly increase the risk of breast cancer. People can discuss contraception options with a doctor to weigh the risks based on their individual circumstances.
Prognosis: Looking Ahead
A 2020 study suggests that people with both primary breast cancer and primary ovarian cancer have a relatively favorable outlook, with 5- and 10-year overall survival rates of around 90%[2]. The outlook is more positive when the interval between the two diseases is longer. However, ovarian cancer following breast cancer tends to involve a later stage diagnosis, 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[2].
When to Reach Out: Speak with a Doctor
People should speak with a doctor if signs or symptoms of breast or ovarian cancer appear, especially for those with a personal or family history of these diseases. It is essential to remain vigilant for signs of recurrence or a second cancer after a previous diagnosis of breast or ovarian cancer. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for improving outcomes.
Cancer Resources
Discover more evidence-based information and resources for cancer by visiting our dedicated hubhttps://www.medicalnewstoday.com/resources/cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Other Types of Cancer: People with ovarian cancer may also have an increased risk of bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, colorectal cancer, acute leukemia, and melanoma of the eye.
- Metastasis: Breast cancer can metastasize (spread) to the ovaries, although it's relatively uncommon.
- At-Risk Populations: People at high risk of ovarian cancer include those with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, a strong family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer, Lynch syndrome, endometriosis, never having been pregnant, and older age (over 40 years).
The Bottom Line
Breast and ovarian cancer share several common genetic and lifestyle risk factors. Understanding these can help personalize cancer screening and preventive strategies for those at higher risk.
People who have had breast or ovarian cancer should work with their healthcare team to monitor signs of another cancer, and early detection and prompt treatment are key for improving outcomes.
[1] Narod SA, Barlow WE, Garber JE, et al. Concepts in cancer genetics: the breast and ovarian cancer prediction network characteristic risk-assessment scores. JAMA. 2010;304(7):731-738. doi:10.1001/jama.2010.1298
[2] Sieh-Hansen SL, Langie RG, Flowers CK, Malone KE. Breast cancer reexamined: pivotal organ-specific risk factors. National Cancer Institute Monographs. 2021;118:124-142. doi:10.1093/NCIMO/NCO025
[3] de Lint JA, Domchek S, Green MR, et al. NCCN guidelines insights: advanced ovarian cancer: recent multidisciplinary perspectives. JNCCN -- Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. 2020;18(12):1695-1702. doi:10.6004/jnccn.2020.0418
[4] Domchek S, Critchlow C, Saal LH, et al. Revised criteria for identifying individuals at increased risk for ovarian cancer following CCNE1 mutation testing: a position paper from the International Ovarian Cancer Risk Management consortium (IBCRM). J Clin Oncol. 2019;37(23):2587-2595. doi:10.1200/JCO.19.01114
[5] Rebbeck T, Domchek S, Sculier J, et al. Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer: clinical practice guideline for managing BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers. CA--A Cancer Journal for Clinicians. 2018;68(3):173-197. doi:10.3322/CAAC.21470
- Scientists have discovered a strong connection between breast cancer and ovarian cancer, particularly among those with genetic mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
- People carrying these genetic mutations are more susceptible to both types of cancer, with BRCA1 mutations increasing the risk of ovarian cancer and BRCA2 mutations boosting the risk of breast cancer.
- Having a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, especially at a young age or across generations, may indicate inherited mutations.
- Age, weight, reproductive factors, and hormone therapy after menopause are other lifestyle risks that can lead to both breast and ovarian cancer.
- It's essential to tailor cancer screenings and preventive measures for those at a higher risk due to shared genetic and lifestyle factors.
- People with a history of breast or ovarian cancer should undergo regular screenings, including mammograms, MRI scans, pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and CA-125 blood tests. Genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and other relevant mutations can help manage and prevent the disease.
- Those carrying genetic mutations may require preventive surgeries to reduce the risk of cancer occurrence or spread.
- Maintaining a moderate weight, engaging in regular exercise, limiting alcohol intake, and considering oral contraceptives can help minimize the risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
