Connected cancer types: Implications and risk factors
Loosely Linked Ladies' Tumors: The Dynamic Duo of Breast and Ovarian Cancer
The connection between breast cancer and ovarian cancer is not just a crazy coincidence - there's a solid genetic bond at play, especially for folks carrying mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
Boob and ovary cancer, as we like to call them, share some hidden genetic risk factors. People packing these risk factors may find themselves at an increased risk for both cancers.
Now, what else goes hand in hand with these two cancerous ladies? Aging, excess weight, and never carrying a precious pregnancy to term, are all factors that might boost an individual's risk. Luckily, some of these risk factors can be modified, like achieving and maintaining a healthier weight.
Do breast and ovarian cancer make each other more likely?
Those who've battled breast cancer might find themselves with an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer, especially if their battle with the breast cancer was tainted with BRCA gene mutations. This increased risk is more about the underlying genetics rather than the disease itself.
Studies suggest that individuals with breast cancer are twice as likely to later develop primary ovarian cancer. The opposite also holds true. Folks faced with ovarian cancer might face a 1.6-fold increased risk of subsequent breast cancer, although the risk fluctuates with time since their initial diagnosis.
Shared risk factors for breast and ovarian cancers
BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations are the most significant shared risk factors. Research indicates that around 45% of families with ovarian and breast cancer carry BRCA1 gene mutations, while roughly 20% sport BRCA2 mutations.
Additional shared risk factors for these charming cancer pals could include:
- family history of either breast or ovarian cancer
- advancing age (ovarian cancer typically strikes after 40, breast cancer at 55 or older)
- a bold waistline
- waiting until your thirties to have a baby for the first time
- never giving birth
- forgoing breastfeeding
- hormone replacement therapy after menopause
Reducing the risk: You're in the driver's seat
Some risk factors, like earlier battles with breast or ovarian cancer, are non-negotiable. Managing these unavoidable risk factors might involve close monitoring, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, preventive medical procedures.
For those with a history of breast or ovarian cancer, healthcare professionals may recommend more frequent and thorough screenings, including regular mammograms, breast MRI scans, pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and CA-125 blood tests.
Genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and other relevant mutations is the ace up the sleeve for monitoring and prevention measures.
For carriers of these genetic mutations, doctors might consider extra precautions such as prophylactic surgeries to remove organs or tissues and prevent the onset or spread of cancer.
Modifiable risk factors
- Weight: Embracing a healthier weight can help reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Obesity might cause higher estrogen levels, which can heighten the risk of breast cancer.
- Exercise: Regular exercise lowers the risk of breast cancer, and preliminary evidence supports a connection with ovarian cancer. Exercise not only helps maintain a healthier weight but may also have specific anti-cancer benefits.
- Drinking: Reducing booze intake reduces the risk of breast cancer. The risk increases with the amount consumed, so limiting alcohol is advised.
- Birth control pills: Birth control pills might reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. However, they might slightly increase the risk of breast cancer. People can consult their doctor to weigh the pros and cons based on their specific circumstances.
Outlook
A 2020 observational study suggests that those battling both primary breast cancer and primary ovarian cancer have a fairly positive outlook, with 5- and 10-year overall survival rates hovering around 90%. The outlook is generally rosier when the interval between the two cancers is longer. However, ovarian cancer following breast cancer is more likely to surface at a later stage, which can negatively impact survival.
Several factors can affect a person's overall prognosis. For more information about an individual's outlook, they can discuss their concerns with their healthcare team.
When to consult a medical professional
People should communicate with a doctor if signs or symptoms of breast or ovarian cancer appear, particularly if there’s a personal or family history of these diseases. Keeping a watchful eye for signs of recurrence or a second cancer following a previous diagnosis is crucial for favorable outcomes.
Resources
To learn more evidence-based information and resources for cancer, visit our dedicated hub.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Other Cancers for Folks with Ovarian Cancer: People with ovarian cancer may see an increased risk of developing bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, colorectal cancer, acute leukemia, and melanoma of the eye.
- Breast Cancer Metastasis: Breast cancer can metastasize (spread) to the ovaries, although it’s relatively uncommon. This metastasis is more likely in breast cancers that are hormone receptor-positive or in people with BRCA mutations.
- High-Risk Individuals for Ovarian Cancer: People who are at high risk of ovarian cancer are those with:
- BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations
- family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer
- Lynch syndrome
- a history of endometriosis
- never pregnancy
- a late first pregnancy
- age over 40 years
- People carrying mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes could find an increased risk for both breast cancer and ovarian cancer, as these cancers share some hidden genetic risk factors.
- A 2020 observational study suggests that those battling both primary breast cancer and primary ovarian cancer have a fairly positive outlook, with 5- and 10-year overall survival rates hovering around 90%.
- Genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and other relevant mutations is crucial for monitoring and prevention measures for individuals with a history of breast or ovarian cancer or those with a family history of these diseases.
- For carriers of BRCA1, BRCA2, or other relevant mutations, doctors might consider extra precautions such as prophylactic surgeries to remove organs or tissues and prevent the onset or spread of cancer.
- Achieving and maintaining a healthier weight can help reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, as obesity might cause higher estrogen levels, which can heighten the risk of breast cancer.
- People with ovarian cancer may see an increased risk of developing bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, colorectal cancer, acute leukemia, and melanoma of the eye.
