Connection between Breast and Ovarian Cancers: Identified Links and Risk Factors
Going Down a Rabbithole: Breast and Ovarian Cancer Connections
Ever wondered whether our tits and balls talk to each other? Well, they sorta kinda do, but not in a fun way. We're referring to the alarming link between breast cancer and ovarian cancer.
Here's the lowdown on this unexpected relationship, complete with a splash of insider knowledge to butter your toast.
Breast and Ovarian Cancer: A Tale of Two Cancers
Let's let them in on a little secret: breast and ovarian cancer apparently share more than just the ABCs. This surprising fact is primarily due to genetic factors, with the story taking quite the turn when it involves certain mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
It's important to remember that genetics play a significant role in many health issues, and cancer is no exception. So don't be surprised if you hear the word "genes" a lot.
The BRCA Connection
Ah, BRCA, the fabulous twins of the gene world! These bad boys and girls are responsible for helping to fix any DNA damage or errors, thus preventing cancer. But when they're broken, these spectacular genes can lead to an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
Now, here's a shocker. Around 1 in 4 families with breast and ovarian cancer history carry BRCA1 mutations, while roughly 20% have BRCA2 mutations. Genetics, eh? You certainly can't pick 'em.
Mutation Nation
But it's not just the BRCA genes that are causing a ruckus. Other genes, like PALB2, BARD1, RAD51D, RAD51C, and BRIP1, also play a role in the risk of breast and ovarian cancers[3]. It's like playing musical chairs, but with our genetic composition.
Common Ground
Old age, being overweight or obese, never carrying a pregnancy to term, and certain hormonal influences are usual suspects when it comes to shared risk factors for breast and ovarian cancer. Managing these risk factors, like working on that twinkle in your eye and maintaining a moderate weight, may help reduce the likelihood of developing these cancers.
Making Ripples
So, what happens when breast cancer shows up on the scene? Well, it's said that people with breast cancer are approximately twice as likely to develop subsequent primary ovarian cancer[4]. On a related note, ovarian cancer survivors have a slightly elevated risk of subsequently developing breast cancer, although the risk fluctuates over time following the initial diagnosis[4].
The Cause and Effect
Now, it's important to clear up a common misconception: the disease itself actually doesn't cause an increased risk of the other cancer; instead, underlying genetic factors are the culprits[4].
Susceptible Populations
Certain groups are more susceptible to the risk of developing either breast or ovarian cancer, including those with a family history of either cancer, Lynch syndrome[3], endometriosis, a history of never being pregnant, a late first pregnancy, or reaching the age of 40 years[6].
Stepping Stone: Breast Cancer to Ovarian Cancer
Breast cancer can sometimes spread to the ovaries, although this occurrence is relatively uncommon[6]. This may be more likely in breast cancers that are hormone receptor-positive or in people with BRCA mutations.
The Road Ahead
Predictably, an individual's outlook depends on various factors, such as the stage of cancer at diagnosis, the age during the first diagnosis, and the time between the two cancers. If a person is seeking more information on their specific outlook, they should engage in a conversation with their healthcare team[6].
Where to Get the Skinny
If you're after more evidence-based knowledge and resources on cancer, feel free to pay a visit to our dedicated cancer hub.
FAQs
- Can ovarian cancer be caused by breast cancer? No, breast cancer does not directly cause ovarian cancer. However, genetic mutations like BRCA can increase the risk of both cancers[6].
- Which cancers may people with ovarian cancer be at an increased risk for? People with ovarian cancer may have an increased risk of breast cancer, bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, colorectal cancer, acute leukemia, and melanoma of the eye[6].
- Women with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer may have an increased risk due to shared genetic factors, particularly mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
- Other genes such as PALB2, BARD1, RAD51D, RAD51C, and BRIP1 also play a role in the risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
- Managing risk factors like maintaining a moderate weight and managing hormonal influences may help reduce the likelihood of developing these cancers.
- People with breast cancer have an approximately twice as high risk of developing subsequent primary ovarian cancer, and vice versa.
- An individual's specific outlook depends on factors like the stage of cancer at diagnosis, age at first diagnosis, and time between the two cancers.
- Cancer survivors should engage in conversations with their healthcare team for more information on their specific outlook.
