Connected Cancer Types: Link and Risk Factors
Take a capabilities tour of the fascinating link between breast and ovarian cancer
Joined at the hip by common genetic factors, breast and ovarian cancers share a profound relationship. With genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2 often paving the way, people who've battled one of these diseases may find themselves facing the other. Let's uncover the secrets of this connection, the risks involved, and what you can do to reduce your chances.
Are breasts and ovaries playing a dangerous game together?
There's no denying it - the link between these two diseases is undeniable. People who have had breast cancer may find an increased risk of ovarian cancer lurking in their future, especially when breast cancer shares genetic links to BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations. Research suggests that those with breast cancer are roughly twice as likely to develop ovarian cancer post-cancer. On the contrary, those with ovarian cancer may find themselves at a 1.6-fold increased risk of breast cancer, though the risks vary with time from the initial diagnosis.
Thinking genetically
The most significant shared risk factors for breast and ovarian cancer revolve around those pesky BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Some studies suggest that around one-third of families with both ovarian and breast cancer have BRCA1 gene mutations, while approximately 20% harbor BRCA2 mutations.
But don’t think you're off the hook if the genetic tests come back clear. Other shared risks for these two cancerous twins include:
- A family history of breast or ovarian cancer
- Older age, with ovarian cancer typically occurring in folks over 40 and breast cancer in those 55 or older
- Overweight or obesity
- Having a first child later in life
- Never having children
- Not breastfeeding
- Hormone therapy after menopause
Ready, set, change
While some risks, like carrying genetic mutations, are unchangeable, other factors can be tackled with a few lifestyle tweaks.
- The scales: Keeping a moderate weight through diet and regular exercise is a powerful weapon in the fight against breast and ovarian cancer.
- Hit the gym: Regular physical activity is a proven ally against breast cancer, and there's even evidence to suggest a link with ovarian cancer.
- Cut back on booze: Reducing alcohol intake can lower your breast cancer risk, and though the evidence isn't as strong for ovarian cancer, it's still a good idea to keep it in check.
- Birth control: Pills could offer a bit of protection against ovarian cancer, but remember that they might slightly increase breast cancer risk. Consult your doctor to discuss contraception options that balance your health needs.
Welcome the mirror-image outlookA 2020 observational study demonstrated that people with both primary breast cancer and ovarian cancer have a relatively favorable outlook, with 5- and 10-year overall survival rates of about 90%. The prognosis is generally better when the time between the two cancers is extended. Though ovarian cancer following breast cancer is often diagnosed at a later stage, which can impact survival rates.
Factors like age at initial diagnosis and the duration between the cancers significantly influence overall survival. Curious to learn more about your outlook? Chat with your healthcare team!
Seeking advice from the docStay vigilant for signs of breast or ovarian cancer, particularly with a family history of these diseases. If any symptoms appear after a previous diagnosis, prompt action is crucial for better outcomes.
For additional information and resources on cancer, visit our dedicated hub.
Cancer Q&A
Q: Which cancers might people with ovarian cancer be at an increased risk of?A: Besides breast cancer, potential risks also include bladder, bile duct, colorectal, acute leukemia, and melanoma of the eye.
Q: Can breast cancer spread to the ovaries?A: Yes, breast cancer occasionally metastasizes to the ovaries, usually in advanced stages, particularly in hormone receptor-positive tumors or people with BRCA mutations.
Q: Who might be at high risk of ovarian cancer?A: Those with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, a family history of ovarian, breast or colorectal cancer, Lynch syndrome, endometriosis, never having been pregnant, late first pregnancy, or age over 40 years are at increased risk of ovarian cancer.
Taking it in strideFrom shared genetic mutations to modifiable lifestyle choices, one thing is certain – taking charge of your health can make a world of difference in the fight against breast and ovarian cancer. Keep an open dialogue with your healthcare team to understand your risks, make educated decisions, and stay on top of your screenings. Together, we can tackle this duo and win the battle for good health!
- The shared link between breast and ovarian cancers is undeniable, with people who have had breast cancer finding an increased risk of ovarian cancer, especially when breast cancer shares genetic links to BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations.
- Research suggests that those with breast cancer are roughly twice as likely to develop ovarian cancer post-cancer, while those with ovarian cancer may find themselves at a 1.6-fold increased risk of breast cancer.
- The most significant shared risk factors for breast and ovarian cancer involve genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2, a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, older age, overweight or obesity, having a first child later in life, never having children, not breastfeeding, and hormone therapy after menopause.
- While factors like carrying genetic mutations are unchangeable, other risks can be tackled with lifestyle tweaks, such as maintaining a moderate weight, regular physical activity, reducing alcohol intake, and being mindful of birth control options.
- A 2020 observational study demonstrated that people with both primary breast cancer and ovarian cancer have a relatively favorable outlook, with 5- and 10-year overall survival rates of about 90%.
- Beyond breast and ovarian cancer, people with ovarian cancer might also be at an increased risk of bladder, bile duct, colorectal, acute leukemia, and melanoma of the eye, and those with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, a family history of ovarian, breast or colorectal cancer, Lynch syndrome, endometriosis, never having been pregnant, late first pregnancy, or age over 40 years are at increased risk of ovarian cancer.
