Connection and Risk Factors of Breast Cancer and Ovarian Cancer
Link Established Between Breast and Ovarian Cancer Due to Genetic Factors
Individuals carrying mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes face significantly increased risks of developing breast and ovarian cancers, as well as certain other cancers. This association is primarily due to shared genetic mutations.
Both breast and ovarian cancers share some underlying genetic risk factors, with people who carry these risk factors potentially having an elevated risk for both cancers. Factors such as older age, overweight or obesity, and never carrying a pregnancy to term can increase the risk of either cancer. Such risk factors may be manageable through lifestyle changes and preventive measures.
People diagnosed with breast cancer may have an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer, particularly if the breast cancer is related to genetic mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2. This increased risk stems from the underlying genetic factors rather than the disease itself. Research indicates that those with breast cancer are approximately twice as likely to develop subsequent primary ovarian cancer. Inversely, those with ovarian cancer may have a 1.6-fold increased risk of subsequent breast cancer, although the risk varies with time since their initial cancer diagnosis.
Besides genetic mutations, shared risk factors for breast and ovarian cancers may include:
- family history of either cancer,
- older age, with ovarian cancer typically occurring in individuals over 40 years and breast cancer in those 55 years or older,
- overweight or obesity,
- first child being born late,
- never having children,
- not breastfeeding,
- hormone therapy after menopause.
Genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and other relevant mutations can be the best strategy for monitoring and prevention. For those carrying genetic mutations, prophylactic surgeries to remove organs or tissues may be considered as preventative measures.
Changeable risk factors such as weight, exercise, alcohol intake, and the use of oral contraceptives can influence the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Maintaining a moderate weight, regular exercise, reducing alcohol intake, and discussing oral contraceptive options with a healthcare professional can help minimize these risks.
Studies suggest 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%. However, the interval between the two cancers and a person's age at the time of their first cancer diagnosis are significant predictors of survival. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for improving outcomes.
Those with a personal or family history of breast or ovarian cancer should discuss signs or symptoms with their healthcare team and stay vigilant for recurrence or a second cancer after a previous diagnosis. Cancer resources are available to provide more evidence-based information and support for those impacted by cancer.
Summary:
The link between breast and ovarian cancer is primarily attributed to shared genetic mutations, particularly in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. People with these mutations have a significantly higher risk of developing both cancers. A personal or family history of one cancer can increase the risk of developing the other, emphasizing the importance of genetic testing and regular screenings for those at higher risk.
- People carrying mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes face increased risks not only for breast and ovarian cancers, but also for certain other cancers.
- Both breast and ovarian cancers can be influenced by shared risk factors, such as older age, overweight or obesity, never carrying a pregnancy to term, and hormone therapy after menopause.
- Genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and other relevant mutations is crucial for monitoring and prevention, as it helps identify those at higher risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers.
- Changeable risk factors like weight, exercise, alcohol intake, and the use of oral contraceptives can impact the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, and making lifestyle changes can help minimize these risks.
- Studies indicate that individuals with both primary breast cancer and primary ovarian cancer tend to have relatively favorable 5- and 10-year overall survival rates, but the interval between the cancers and a person's age at the time of their first diagnosis are significant predictors of survival.
- Those with a personal or family history of breast or ovarian cancer should remain vigilant for signs or symptoms, discuss their concerns with their healthcare team, and take advantage of available resources for support and evidence-based information about health-and-wellness, women's health, and managing medical conditions like breast cancer and menopause.
