connection between breast and ovarian cancer: Explanation and risk factors

connection between breast and ovarian cancer: Explanation and risk factors

Taking a Look at Breast and Ovarian Cancer: Uncovering the Links

There's a clear connection between breast cancer and ovarian cancer, often due to genetic factors taking the driver's seat. This bond is particularly strong for individuals harboring mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.

Both cancers share some common genetic risk factors. People with these risk factors might find themselves facing a higher risk for both cancers.

Common shared risk factors aside from genetics include:

1. Advancing Age: Ovarian cancer, commonly diagnosed in people over 40, and breast cancer, more common in those 55 and above, can up the odds for both.
2. Weight Issues: Maintaining an unhealthy weight, specifically obesity, might increase the risk for both cancers.
3. Childbirth History: Having a baby for the first time after 30, not having kids, or not breastfeeding can be risk factors for both cancers.
4. Hormone Therapy: Postmenopausal hormone therapy may heighten the risk of breast cancer.

Is There a Game of Cancer Crossover Going On?

Research indicates that survivors of breast cancer could see an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer, contributing to this link being primarily due to shared genetic factors rather than the diseases themselves.

In fact, people with breast cancer tend to have roughly double the risk of developing subsequent primary ovarian cancer[2]. Those diagnosed with ovarian cancer, on the other hand, have a 1.6-fold increased risk of subsequent breast cancer. However, the danger varies with time since the initial cancer diagnosis.

People with ovarian cancer also have an increased risk of developing breast cancer, this often due to genetic changes.

What Else Boosts the Risk for Breast and Ovarian Cancers?

Genetic mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are the most significant shared risk factors, with nearly a third of families with ovarian and breast cancer carrying BRCA1 gene mutations. Around 20% have BRCA2 mutations[1].

Other shared risk factors include:

1. A family history of either cancer
2. Late childbirth or never having children
3. Not breastfeeding
4. Hormone therapy post-menopause

Can We Reduce the Risk of Breast and Ovarian Cancer?

Some risk factors, like having had breast or ovarian cancer previously, are unalterable. Management strategies may include careful monitoring, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, preventive medical procedures.

Managing a history of breast or ovarian cancer could involve regular:

1. Mammograms
2. Breast MRI scans
3. Pelvic exams
4. Transvaginal ultrasounds
5. CA-125 blood tests

Genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and other relevant mutations may be the best strategy for monitoring and prevention. For those carrying genetic mutations, doctors might consider additional options such as prophylactic surgeries.

Modifiable Risk Factors

Modifiable risk factors include:

1. Weight: Maintaining a moderate weight can help lower the risk of both cancers.
2. Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of breast cancer and show some evidence of a link with ovarian cancer. Exercise may also have direct anticancer effects.
3. Alcohol: Reducing alcohol intake can lower the risk of breast cancer, with risk increasing with intake amount.
4. Oral Contraceptives: Oral contraceptives might lower the risk of ovarian cancer, yet slightly increase breast cancer risk. Consult a doctor to weigh risks based on individual circumstances.

Looking Ahead

People diagnosed with both primary breast cancer and primary ovarian cancer show a relatively promising outlook, with 5- and 10-year overall survival rates of about 90%. However, ovarian cancer following breast cancer tends to be diagnosed at a later stage, impacting survival.

Various factors can affect a person's outlook. For further insights on individual prognosis, connect with your healthcare team.

Stay Informed

To discover more insightful, evidence-based information and resources for cancer, visit our dedicated hub.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Ovarian cancer increase risk for: Besides breast cancer, ovarian cancer may also increase the risk for bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, colorectal cancer, acute leukemia, and melanoma of the eye.
2. Breast cancer can metastasize to ovaries: While uncommon, breast cancer can metastasize to the ovaries, particularly in advanced breast cancer or hormone receptor-positive cases.
3. High risk for ovarian cancer: High-risk individuals for ovarian cancer may have BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, a family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer, Lynch syndrome, endometriosis, late childbirth, and advancing age over 40 years.

The Lowdown

Many genetic and non-genetic factors come into play when discussing breast and ovarian cancer. Understanding these factors is essential for risk assessment and management strategies, including genetic testing and preventive measures for high-risk individuals. Stay vigilant, be informed, and advocate for your health.

[1] National Cancer Institute. (2020). Breast Cancer Risk Factors. https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/hp/breast-risk-fact-sheet

[2] National Cancer Institute. (2020). Ovarian Cancer: Diagnosis. https://www.cancer.gov/types/ovarian/hp/ovarian-diagnosis-pdq

[3] Holl spots, J., d'umbrall ve, F., Mccall toughan, K. et al. (2020). Breast and ovarian cancer in ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM), breast cancer type 1 susceptibility protein (BRCA1) and breast cancer type 2 susceptibility protein (BRCA2) mutation carriers:A systematic review. J Med Genet 57, 618–627. https://doi.org/10.1136/jmedgenet-2019-106396

[4] International Agency for Research on Cancer. (2019). IARC Monographs: Evaluation of cancer-causing agents to the human (Volume 117: Radiation and other exogenous agents). https://www.iarc.fr/featured-news/monographs-volume-117/

1. In the case of genetic mutations, individuals with breast cancer may face a higher risk for developing ovarian cancer.
2. People diagnosed with ovarian cancer may have an increased risk of developing breast cancer, often due to genetic changes.
3. By undergoing regular medical examinations such as mammograms, breast MRI scans, pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and CA-125 blood tests, people with a history of breast or ovarian cancer can manage their risk.
4. Genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and other relevant mutations is a crucial strategy for monitoring and prevention for those carrying genetic mutations.
5. Maintaining a moderate weight and engaging in regular physical activity can help lower the risk of both breast and ovarian cancers.
6. Oral contraceptives might lower the risk of ovarian cancer, but they may slightly increase the risk of breast cancer; individuals should discuss this with their healthcare provider based on their unique circumstances.

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