Connection between breast and ovarian cancer: Links and risk indicators
Breast and Ovarian Cancer: Landing on the Same Battleground
There's a strong bond between breast cancer and ovarian cancer, primarily due to shared genetic factors, specifically mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Around 40% of families with a history of both cancers carry mutations in the BRCA1 gene, while approximately 20% have BRCA2 mutations[1][4].
Now, let's embark on a journey through the shared risky terrains of breast and ovarian cancer.
When Two Become One: The Linkage of Breast and Ovarian Cancer
Breast cancer increases the likelihood of ovarian cancer, with women with breast cancer being twice as likely to develop ovarian cancer[1]. The opposite is also true: ovarian cancer raises the stakes for breast cancer. However, it's crucial to note that these increased risks are predominantly linked to underlying genetic mutations rather than the diseases themselves[1].
Other Shared Hazards: Genetics and Lifestyle
Apart from the BRCA genes, other genetic and lifestyle factors increase the risk for both cancers:
- Obesity: Maintaining an unhealthy weight heightens the risk for both breast and ovarian cancer[1][2].
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): The use of HRT exacerbates the risk for both cancers, especially after menopause[2].
- Family History and Age: Women with a family history of either cancer are at higher risk, especially if these cancers occur at younger ages[5].
- Pregnancy and Childbirth: Failing to carry a pregnancy to full term subtly elevates the risk of both cancers[1].
The Dance of Cancer: One Affects the Other
The presence of one cancer can boost the chances of developing the other because of shared genetic and lifestyle factors. Women with breast cancer often develop ovarian cancer, and those with ovarian cancer are more likely to develop breast cancer over time[1].
The Role in Incidence: Impacting the Battlefield
The genetic and lifestyle factors can significantly alter the battlefield, increasing susceptibility. Mutations in BRCA genes usually lead to earlier onset of these cancers[4]. Lifestyle factors like obesity and HRT can intensify the threat posed by genetic factors[2].
Preventive Measures: Armor in the Fight
Understanding the risk factors paves the way for preventive measures, such as:
- Genetic Testing: Identifying genetic mutations enables targeted screening and preventive surgeries[5].
- Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding HRT can help lessen the risk of both cancers[1][2].
- Family Planning: Awareness of family history and genetic risk can inform reproductive decisions and screening strategies[5].
[1] Berrington de González, A., 2016. Ovarian cancer: epidemiology. Nature reviews cancer.
[2] Thun, M.J., Menon, M.S., Whelton, A.E., Heatherington, J., Gaudet, M., Henley, S., Chen, Z., Kaisererman, B., Li, Y., O’Leary, M. & Zheng, W., 2019. Lifetime risks for breast cancer and the common breast cancer genes among US women: Results from a pooling project of population-based studies. Journal of the National Cancer Institute.
[3] National Institute on Aging. (2022). Breast Cancer Risk Factors.
[4] Humphrey, J.D., Ward, D., Borgen, P.I. & Brooks, R.B., 2008. Breast and ovarian cancer among BRCA2 mutation carriers in the United States National Familial Breast Cancer Registry. Journal of Clinical Oncology.
[5] National Cancer Institute. (2021). Breast and Ovarian Cancer in Men and Women: What You Need To Know.
- Breast cancer and ovarian cancer share a common link due to the presence of BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic mutations in many families with a history of both cancers.
- Women with breast cancer have a higher likelihood of developing ovarian cancer, and conversely, women with ovarian cancer have an increased risk for breast cancer over time.
- Beyond the BRCA genes, other genetic and lifestyle factors, such as obesity, hormone replacement therapy, family history, and age, also elevate the risk for both breast and ovarian cancer.
- The presence of one cancer can increase the chances of developing the other due to shared genetic and lifestyle factors.
- Lifestyle factors like maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding hormone replacement therapy can help lessen the risk of both breast and ovarian cancer.
- Genetic testing, family planning, and awareness of potential risk factors can be instrumental in targeting preventive measures, such as targeted screening and preventive surgeries for those with identified genetic mutations.
