Connection between Breast and Ovarian Cancer: Shared Links and Risk Factors
Rewritten Article:
Breast cancer and ovarian cancer shares a profound link, primarily due to genetic factors. People with mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, also known as the 'cancer genes,' have a significant increased risk for both cancers [1][3][5].
These dreadful diseases are not strangers to each other; a history of one increases the chances of developing the other. This intricate connection underscores the importance of genetic testing, regular screenings, and preventive measures for those at higher risk [2][5].
A Tangle of Genes and Risks
Shared genetic mutations, particularly in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, create a vicious cycle, where having one type of cancer significantly increases the risk of the other. Approximately 5-10% of families with ovarian and breast cancer carry BRCA1 gene mutations, while around 20% have BRCA2 mutations [2].
Beyond these mutations, family history plays a crucial role. With a significant family history of either cancer, a person may be at increased risk [2][5].
The Role of Reproduction and Weight
Obesity, being overweight, and hormonal factors are also part of the risk profile for both cancers. The role of obesity in both cancers is complex, but it's safe to say that being overweight or obese increases the risk [4].
When it comes to hormones, estrogen plays a conflicting role in both cancers. High estrogen levels (e.g., from hormone replacement therapy) can increase the risk of both cancers, while oral contraceptives may help to decrease ovarian cancer risk [4].
Moreover, reproductive factors like age at first menstruation, age at menopause, pregnancy history, and breastfeeding can influence the risk of breast cancer [4]. For ovarian cancer, never having given birth significantly increases the risk [4].
Taking Control, Staying Ahead
Genetic testing is an essential step for those at higher risk, as it can help to tailor the strategies for monitoring and prevention accordingly. Doctors may consider additional options such as prophylactic surgeries for those who carry genetic mutations [2].
Regular screenings are crucial for early detection and treatment. Women at higher risk may need to undergo regular mammograms, breast MRI scans, pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and CA-125 blood tests [2].
The Bright and Dark Sides
A study conducted in 2020 suggests that individuals with both primary breast and ovarian cancer have a relatively favorable outlook, with 5- and 10-year overall survival rates around 90% [2].
The outlook can vary significantly, depending on factors such as the interval between the two cancers and the age during the first diagnosis. Those diagnosed with ovarian cancer following breast cancer tend to be diagnosed at a later stage, which can negatively impact survival rates [2].
When to Seek Help
If signs or symptoms of breast or ovarian cancer appear, it's essential to consult with a doctor, especially for those with a personal or family history of these diseases. Anyone who has undergone treatment for breast or ovarian cancer needs to stay extra vigilant for signs of recurrence or a second cancer [2].
Cancer Resources
For cancer-related evidence-based information and resources, visit our dedicated hub [6].
FAQs
Ovarian cancer may increase the risk of other cancers, such as breast cancer, bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, colorectal cancer, acute leukemia, and melanoma of the eye [3].
Breast cancer can metastasize (spread) to the ovaries, although it's relatively uncommon, often seen in advanced breast cancer. This may be more likely in breast cancers that are hormone receptor-positive or in people with BRCA mutations [5].
Individuals at high risk of ovarian cancer may possess the following risk factors:
- BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations
- A family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer
- Lynch syndrome
- Endometriosis
- Never having been pregnant
- Late first pregnancy
- Age over 40 years [3]
The Bottom Line
By understanding the complex relationship between breast cancer and ovarian cancer, individuals can make more informed decisions about their health. Genetic testing, lifestyle modifications, and regular screenings are pivotal for those at higher risk to prevent or detect these cancers early [5].
- The genetic factors that intensify the risk of breast cancer are shared with ovarian cancer, particularly mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which are commonly referred to as 'cancer genes'.
- A history of breast cancer raises the likelihood of subsequently developing ovarian cancer, while conversely, a history of ovarian cancer increases the risk of breast cancer.
- Up to 20% of families with both breast and ovarian cancer carry mutations in the BRCA2 gene, while around 5-10% carry mutations in the BRCA1 gene.
- In addition to genetic factors, obesity, being overweight, and hormonal imbalances also contribute to the risk profiles of both breast cancer and ovarian cancer.
- High levels of estrogen, as found in hormone replacement therapy, can augment the risk of both breast cancer and ovarian cancer, while oral contraceptives may help reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.
- Reproductive factors like age at first menstruation, age at menopause, pregnancy history, and breastfeeding can impact the risk of breast cancer, while never having given birth significantly increases the risk of ovarian cancer.
- Genetic testing can help people at higher risk tailor strategies for monitoring and prevention, and doctors may suggest prophylactic surgeries for those with genetic mutations.
- The outlook for individuals with both primary breast and ovarian cancer is relatively optimistic, with 5- and 10-year overall survival rates near 90%, but this can vary based on a variety of factors, such as the interval between diagnoses and the age at first diagnosis.
