Connection and Risk Factors between Breast and Ovarian Cancer
Breast and ovarian cancer share a strong link due to genetic and lifestyle factors, increasing the risk of each other's development. Genetic mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 are the most significant factors, with approximately 1 in 4 families with ovarian and breast cancer carrying BRCA1 mutations, while around 20% have BRCA2 mutations.
People with a history of either cancer have an increased risk of developing the other, particularly if the cancers are related to genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2. For instance, research suggests that individuals who have had breast cancer are roughly twice as likely to develop subsequent primary ovarian cancer. Conversely, those with ovarian cancer may have a 1.6-fold increased risk of subsequent breast cancer.
Other shared risk factors for breast and ovarian cancers may include a family history of either cancer, older age (ovarian cancer typically occurs in individuals over 40 years, while breast cancer is common in those 55 years or older), overweight or obesity, having a first child over 30, never having children, not breastfeeding, and hormone therapy after menopause.
Managing unchangeable risk factors, such as having had breast or ovarian cancer previously, may involve careful monitoring, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, preventive medical procedures. Healthcare professionals may recommend more frequent and thorough screenings, such as regular mammograms, breast MRI scans, pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and CA-125 blood tests. Genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and other relevant mutations is considered the best strategy for monitoring and prevention.
For those carrying genetic mutations, doctors may consider additional options such as prophylactic surgeries to remove organs or tissues and prevent the occurrence or spread of cancer.
Modifiable risk factors, such as weight, exercise, alcohol consumption, and oral contraceptives, may also play a role in breast and ovarian cancer risk. Maintaining a moderate weight, regular exercise, reducing alcohol intake, and discussing contraception options with a doctor can help manage these risks.
A 2020 observational 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%. The outlook is generally more positive when the interval between the two diseases is longer. However, ovarian cancer following breast cancer tends to involve diagnosis at a later stage, which can negatively affect survival.
People should speak with a doctor if signs or symptoms of breast or ovarian cancer appear, especially with a personal or family history of these diseases. It is essential to stay vigilant for signs of recurrence or a second cancer after a previous diagnosis of breast or ovarian cancer, as early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for improving outcomes.
Individuals at high risk of ovarian cancer may include those with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, a family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer, Lynch syndrome, endometriosis, never having been pregnant, having a late first pregnancy, or being over 40 years old.
In summary, a strong link exists between breast and ovarian cancer due to shared genetic mutations, particularly in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, and lifestyle factors like obesity and hormone therapy. These shared factors cause the occurrence of one cancer to elevate the likelihood of developing the other, necessitating vigilant monitoring and preventive measures for those at higher risk.
- After a diagnosis of breast cancer, individuals have an increased risk of developing subsequent primary ovarian cancer, particularly if the cancers are related to BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutations.
- For those carrying BRCA1, BRCA2, or other relevant mutations, doctors may consider prophylactic surgeries to remove organs or tissues to prevent the occurrence or spread of breast or ovarian cancer.
- Healthcare professionals may recommend more frequent and thorough screenings, such as regular mammograms, breast MRI scans, pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and CA-125 blood tests, for people with a history of breast or ovarian cancer.
- Genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and other relevant mutations is considered the best strategy for monitoring and prevention of breast and ovarian cancers.
- A family history of either breast or ovarian cancer, older age, overweight or obesity, never having children, not breastfeeding, and hormone therapy after menopause are all shared risk factors for breast and ovarian cancers.
- People with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, a family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer, Lynch syndrome, endometriosis, never having been pregnant, having a late first pregnancy, or being over 40 years old may be at higher risk for ovarian cancer.
