Connection between breast and ovarian cancer: Identified links and potential risk factors
Let's Dish on the Link Between Breast and Ovarian Cancer
Boom, did you know that breast cancer and ovarian cancer are practically Siamese twins when it comes to genetics? Here's the lowdown on their intimate relationship.
Both of these sisters share some hidden genetic risk factors, and people who carry these risk factors are likely to live on a tightrope with a heightened risk for both diseases.
Do these two lovebirds make each other riskier?
Well, if you've battled breast cancer, it's possible*, dare I say probable, that you'll face a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer. This is particularly true when the breast cancer is linked to genetic mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2. But don't worry, it's not the illness itself running the show - it's the underlying genetic factors that are to blame here.
Research suggests that, folks with a history of breast cancer, could have double the risk of developing subsequent primary ovarian cancer. On the flip side, those diagnosed with ovarian cancer have a 1.6-fold increased risk of future breast cancer, although the risk increases with the passage of time since their first diagnosis.
Guess what? Ovarian cancer fighters can have an increased risk of developing breast cancer too, thanks to those darn BRCA mutations.
What other risk factors should we be swiping left on?
Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are the main shared risk factors. Guess which families with both ovarian and breast cancer often have? Yup, BRCA1 mutations occur in about 30% of these families, while BRCA2 mutations affect about 20%.
Other risk factors? Here are some other red flags to be aware of:- Family history of either cancer- Age, with ovarian cancer typically happening in women over 40, and breast cancer often affecting those 55 and up- Being overweight or obese- Giving birth to your first child after 30- Never having children- Skipping breastfeeding- Hormone therapy after menopause
Can we lower the riskty factor?
Some risks, like a history of either cancer, can't be changed. But proper management, lifestyle tweaks, and in some cases, preventive medical procedures can help you navigate these unchangeable risks.
If you have a history of breast or ovarian cancer, healthcare professionals might suggest you stick to more frequent and thorough screenings to catch any early signs of something new. This could look like regular mammograms, breast MRI scans, pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and CA-125 blood tests.
Genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and other relevant mutations would be an excellent strategy for monitoring and prevention. And for those carrying these mutations, doctors might consider additional options like prophylactic surgeries. These procedures involve removing organs or tissues to stop cancer or prevent it from spreading.
What are some changeable risk factors?
Changeable risks include:- Weight: Keeping a moderate weight can lower the risk of both breast and ovarian cancer. Being overweight or obese could increase estrogen levels and boost the risk of breast cancer.- Exercise: Regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of breast cancer, and there's limited evidence suggesting it may do the same for ovarian cancer. Exercise can also help keep you at a healthy weight.- Alcohol: Reducing alcohol intake can lower the risk of breast cancer. The risk goes up with the amount of alcohol consumed, so healthcare professionals might advise limiting it.- Hormonal birth control: Oral contraceptives may lower the risk of ovarian cancer but could slightly increase the risk of breast cancer. Have a chat with your doc to weigh the pros and cons based on your situation.
What's the general outlook like?
A 2020 study suggests that folks with both primary breast cancer and primary ovarian cancer have relatively positive survival rates, with 5- and 10-year overall rates of 90%. The outlook is often more promising when the time between diagnoses is longer. However, ovarian cancer that follows breast cancer is commonly diagnosed at a later stage, which could impact survival.
When do I need to have a chat with my doc?
Keep a close eye out for signs and symptoms of breast or ovarian cancer, especially if you have a personal or family history of these diseases. And don't forget to stay vigilant for any signs of recurrence or a second cancer if you've had either diagnosis in the past. Catching these issues early and taking prompt action are crucial for the best outcomes.
Cancer resources for when you want more info
If you're looking for more evidence-based information and resources on cancer, check out our dedicated hub!
Frequently Asked Questions
People with ovarian cancer may have an increased risk of the following cancers:- breast cancer- bladder cancer- bile duct cancer- colorectal cancer- acute leukemia- melanoma of the eye
Breast cancer can metastasize (spread) to the ovaries, although it's relatively rare. It's more common in advanced breast cancer, particularly in breast cancers that are hormone receptor-positive or in people with BRCA mutations.
People at high risk of ovarian cancer include those who have:- BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations- a family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer- Lynch syndrome- endometriosis- never been pregnant- had a late first pregnancy- aged 40 and up
Summary
There's a robust connection between breast cancer and ovarian cancer, primarily centered on shared genetic mutations, especially in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. People who carry these mutations are at a much higher risk of developing both diseases.
In addition, having a personal or family history of one of these cancers can increase the risk of developing the other. This link underscores the importance of genetic testing, regular screenings, and preventive measures for those at higher risk.
Those who have battled breast or ovarian cancer can work with their healthcare team to monitor signs of another cancer.
- The Link Between Breast and Ovarian Cancer is rooted in their shared genetic risk factors, with people who carry these risk factors having an increased risk for both diseases.
- If someone has battled breast cancer, they may face a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer, particularly if the breast cancer is linked to genetic mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2.
- Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are the main shared risk factors and are often found in families with both ovarian and breast cancer.
- Other red flags for increased risk include a family history of either cancer, age, being overweight or obese, giving birth to your first child after 30, never having children, skipping breastfeeding, and hormone therapy after menopause.
- Proper management, lifestyle tweaks, and in some cases, preventive medical procedures can help individuals with a history of breast or ovarian cancer navigate their heightened risks.
- Individuals carrying BRCA mutations, or those at high risk of ovarian cancer, should consider genetic testing and may benefit from prophylactic surgeries to lower their risk.
