Connection Between Breast Cancer and Ovarian Cancer: Shared Links and Risk Factors
Breast and Ovarian Cancer: Shared Genetic and Lifestyle Risk Factors
Those diagnosed with breast cancer may have an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer, particularly if their breast cancer is linked to genetic mutations BRCA1 or BRCA2. This risk is primarily due to the shared genetic factors rather than the disease itself.
Both breast and ovarian cancer share underlying genetic risk factors, with people carrying these risk factors potentially having an increased risk for both cancers. Other shared risk factors include advancing age, being overweight or obese, and never carrying a pregnancy to term. While some risk factors, such as age and genetic mutations, are unmodifiable, changes in weight, exercise habits, and alcohol consumption can help reduce the risk of both cancers.
According to research, people with breast cancer are roughly twice as likely to develop primary ovarian cancer, while those diagnosed with ovarian cancer have a 1.6-fold increased risk of subsequent breast cancer. This risk varies with the time since the initial cancer diagnosis.
Family history is another significant shared risk factor for breast and ovarian cancer. Around 10-15% of families with ovarian and breast cancer have BRCA1 gene mutations, while approximately 20% have BRCA2 mutations. Other risk factors may include a family history of either cancer, hormonal factors, genetic syndromes, and reproductive factors.
Regular screenings, such as mammograms, breast MRI scans, pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and CA-125 blood tests, are essential for early detection and prompt treatment for those at higher risk. Genetic testing can help monitor and prevent the incidence of these conditions for those carrying genetic mutations. In some cases, prophylactic surgeries may be considered to remove organs or tissues at risk of developing cancer.
Those who have undergone a breast or ovarian cancer diagnosis are advised to stay vigilant for signs of recurrence or a second cancer and to engage in regular screenings. A 2020 observational study suggests that people with both primary breast cancer and primary ovarian cancer have a relatively favorable outlook, with five- and ten-year overall survival rates of around 90%. Factors affecting a person's outlook may include their age during the first cancer diagnosis, the time between the two cancers, and various other factors. People with concerns about their individual outlook should discuss these with their healthcare team.
People should speak with a doctor if they observe signs or symptoms of breast or ovarian cancer, especially if they have a personal or family history of these diseases. It is essential to be aware of the signs and seek prompt medical attention to improve outcomes.
Those at high risk of ovarian cancer may include individuals with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, a family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer, Lynch syndrome, endometriosis, never being pregnant, having a late first pregnancy, or being over the age of 40 years. However, it is important to note that many factors can influence cancer risk, and individuals should discuss their specific circumstances with a healthcare professional.
Beyond BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic mutations, shared risk factors for breast and ovarian cancer include family history, age, hormonal factors, genetic syndromes, and reproductive factors. Understanding personal risk and maintaining awareness of both breast and ovarian health is crucial for early detection, prompt treatment, and improved outcomes.
- Those diagnosed with breast cancer, especially those with genetic mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2, may have an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.
- Both breast and ovarian cancer share underlying genetic risk factors, with people carrying these risk factors potentially having an increased risk for both cancers.
- Regular screenings, such as mammograms and pelvic exams, are essential for early detection and prompt treatment for those at higher risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
- Genetic testing can help monitor and prevent the incidence of breast and ovarian conditions for those carrying genetic mutations.
- Factors affecting a person's outlook may include their age during the first cancer diagnosis, the time between the two cancers, and various other factors.
- Those at high risk of ovarian cancer may include individuals with a family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer, Lynch syndrome, endometriosis, never being pregnant, having a late first pregnancy, or being over the age of 40 years.
