Link between Breast and Ovarian Cancer: Identified Risk Factors
There's a solid link between breast cancer and ovarian cancer, primarily due to shared genetic factors. The tie is particularly potent for individuals with mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
Breast and ovarian cancer share certain underlying genetic risk factors. People possessing these risk factors might face an increased risk for both cancers.
A history of breast cancer may boost the risk of developing ovarian cancer. This connection is even stronger if breast cancer stems from genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2. However, this heightened risk centers on the underlying genetic elements, rather than the disease itself.
Statistics suggest people with breast cancer are approximately twice as likely to contract subsequent primary ovarian cancer. Similarly, individuals diagnosed with ovarian cancer may experience a 1.6-fold increased risk of subsequent breast cancer, but this risk fluctuates with time since the initial cancer diagnosis.
People with ovarian cancer are also prone to breast cancer, often due to genetic mutations.
Other risk factors for breast and ovarian cancers
Genetic mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are the most significant shared risk factors. Research indicates that around 55% of families with ovarian and breast cancer carry BRCA1 gene mutations, while roughly 20% harbor BRCA2 mutations.
Other risk factors that may contribute to the development of both cancers include:
- A family history of either cancer
- Advanced age, with ovarian cancer typically affecting people over 40 years and breast cancer occurring in those over 55 years old
- Overweight or obesity
- Late first childbirth
- Never having children
- Foregoing breastfeeding
- Hormone therapy after menopause
Can people lower their risk of breast and ovarian cancer?
Some risk factors are unchangeable. Nevertheless, managing them might involve careful monitoring, lifestyle changes, and, in specific instances, preventive medical procedures.
Individuals with a history of breast or ovarian cancer are at increased risk of the other, particularly when the cancers are related to genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2. This risk cannot be altered, but it can be managed.
Healthcare professionals may encourage those with a history of breast or ovarian cancer to undergo more frequent and detailed screenings to catch any new cancers early. This may include:
- Regular mammograms
- Breast MRI scans
- Pelvic exams
- Transvaginal ultrasounds
- CA-125 blood tests
Genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and other relevant mutations can help devise strategies for monitoring and prevention.
For those carrying genetic mutations, medical professionals may consider additional options such as prophylactic surgeries. These procedures potentially involve removing organs or tissues to prevent the onset or spread of cancer.
Modifiable risk factors
Manageable risk factors include:
- Weight: Achieving and maintaining a moderate weight might reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Obesity could result in higher estrogen levels, which may increase the risk of breast cancer.
- Regular exercise: Regular physical activity could decrease the risk of breast cancer. There is limited evidence suggesting a link to ovarian cancer as well. Exercise can aid in maintaining a moderate weight and may also have direct anticancer effects.
- Alcohol: Cutting down on alcohol intake may lower the risk of breast cancer. The risk increases with the amount of alcohol consumed, so healthcare professionals may recommend limiting consumption.
- Oral contraceptives: Oral contraceptives might decrease the risk of ovarian cancer. However, they may slightly heighten the risk of breast cancer. People can discuss contraception options with a doctor to review the risks based on their individual circumstances.
Outlook
A 2020 observational study discovered that people with both primary breast cancer and primary ovarian cancer generally look promising, boasting 5- and 10-year overall survival rates of around 90%. The outlook is typically more optimistic when the time interval between the two diseases is lengthy. However, ovarian cancer following breast cancer is more likely to involve a later-stage diagnosis, which can negatively impact survival.
Various factors can influence a person's outlook. If someone is curious about their individual outlook, they can consult their healthcare team.
When to speak with a doctor
People should consult a healthcare professional if signs or symptoms of breast or ovarian cancer manifest, especially in the presence of a personal or family history of these diseases. It is crucial 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
For additional evidence-based information and resources on cancer, visit our dedicated hub.
- Both breast and ovarian cancer can be linked due to shared genetic factors, such as mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
- The risk of developing either cancer is increased for people who have a history of the other, particularly when genetic mutations are involved.
- Risk factors for both cancers include a family history of either disease, advanced age, overweight or obesity, late first childbirth, never having children, foregoing breastfeeding, hormone therapy after menopause, and certain medical-conditions like menopause.
- Some manageable risk factors, like weight and exercise, could potentially reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
- Alcohol intake might increase the risk of breast cancer and oral contraceptives may slightly heighten the risk of breast cancer but lower the risk of ovarian cancer.
- People carrying genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, may consider prophylactic surgeries as an additional option for prevention.
- A 2020 observational study showed that individuals with both primary breast and ovarian cancer generally have 5- and 10-year overall survival rates around 90%, with a more optimistic outlook when the time interval between the two diseases is lengthy.
- If signs or symptoms of breast or ovarian cancer appear, or if there is a personal or family history of these diseases, people should consult their healthcare team for guidance and early detection.
