Connection between Breast and Ovarian Cancer: Identified Risk Factors
Breast and Ovarian Cancer: Associations, Risks, and Prevention
There's a strong connection between breast cancer and ovarian cancer, often due to genetic factors and common risk factors. Here's a straightforward overview of the relationship between these two types of cancer.
Shared Genetic Markers
The association between breast cancer and ovarian cancer is largely influenced by specific gene mutations, most notably BRCA1 and BRCA2. It's estimated that about 10% of breast cancers and 10-15% of ovarian cancers result from inherited mutations in these genes [1][2][5]. Carriers of such mutations have a significantly higher lifetime risk of developing both cancers.
Beyond BRCA1 and BRCA2, other genetic conditions such as TP53, PTEN, and PALB2 may also increase the risk for both cancers, albeit to a lesser degree or with different patterns of cancer [4]. Certain ethnic groups, like Ashkenazi Jews, also have a higher prevalence of founder mutations in these genes, further increasing their risk [5].
Common Lifestyle and Hormonal Factors
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Use of estrogen or combined hormone replacement therapy, particularly postmenopausal, is associated with increased risk for both breast and (to a lesser extent) ovarian cancer [1].
- Obesity: Excess body weight is a shared risk factor for both cancers. Obesity affects hormone levels, including estrogen, which can aid cancer development in hormone-sensitive tissues [1].
- Oral Contraceptives: The use of oral contraceptives is associated with a reduced risk of ovarian cancer, but may slightly increase breast cancer risk in certain contexts. However, this factor isn't universally shared across both cancers [1].
Risks and Prevention
People who have had breast or ovarian cancer may have an increased risk of developing the other cancer, particularly if it's related to genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2. To manage this risk, healthcare professionals may recommend more frequent and thorough screenings and, in some instances, preventive medical procedures.
Those carrying genetic mutations might consider additional options such as prophylactic surgeries to remove organs or tissues and prevent cancer growth or spread [3].
Modifiable risk factors include achieving and maintaining a moderate weight through regular exercise, reducing alcohol intake, and discussing contraception options with a doctor to weigh the risks based on individual circumstances.
Outlook and Monitoring
A 2020 observational study suggests that people with both primary breast and primary ovarian cancer have a relatively favorable outlook, with 5- and 10-year overall survival rates of around 90%. The outlook is generally more positive when the interval between the two diseases is longer [3].
To ensure early detection and prompt treatment of any new cancers, people at higher risk should stay vigilant for signs and symptoms and speak with their healthcare team as needed.
For more evidence-based information and resources for cancer, visit our dedicated hub [6].
References:[1] https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/CRC/PDF/Public/8740.00.pdf[2] https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/genetics/brca-breast-ovarian-cancer-gene[3] https://www.breastcancer.org/ Symptoms-and-Diagnosis/ Tests/ BRCA1-and-BRCA2/ Genetic-testing[4] https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/ovarian/basic_info/risk_factors.htm[5] https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/gene/BRCA1[6] https://www.cancerhub.com/
- Both breast cancer and ovarian cancer share a significant connection due to genetic factors, with BRCA1 and BRCA2 being the most notable mutations associated with these cancers.
- Apart from BRCA1 and BRCA2, other genetic conditions like TP53, PTEN, and PALB2 may also increase the risk for both breast and ovarian cancers.
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is linked to an increased risk for both breast and ovarian cancer, especially in postmenopausal women.
- Excess body weight is a common risk factor for both breast and ovarian cancer, as it affects hormone levels, such as estrogen, that can aid cancer development in hormone-sensitive tissues.
- People who have had breast or ovarian cancer might have an increased risk of developing the other cancer, especially if it's related to genetic mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2.
- Achieving and maintaining a moderate weight through regular exercise, reducing alcohol intake, and discussing contraception options with a doctor are modifiable risk factors that can help prevent both breast and ovarian cancer.
