Connection Between Breast and Ovarian Cancer: Identified Links and Risk Factors
Breast and Ovarian Cancer: Shared Genetic and Lifestyle Risk Factors
A significant link exists between breast and ovarian cancer, primarily due to common genetic mutations. This connection is particularly strong in individuals who carry mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
Both breast and ovarian cancers share certain underlying genetic risk factors. People with these risk factors may have an increased susceptibility to both types of cancer. Factors include aging, obesity, never carrying a pregnancy to term, and a family history of either cancer. Some of these risk factors, such as maintaining a moderate weight, may be modifiable.
Individuals who have been diagnosed with breast cancer may have an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer, particularly if their breast cancer is linked to genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2. People with ovarian cancer also have an increased risk of breast cancer, often due to genetic mutations. Research suggests that people with breast cancer are around twice as likely to develop subsequent primary ovarian cancer.
Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are the most significant shared risk factors. Approximately 50% of families with both ovarian and breast cancer have BRCA1 gene mutations, while about 20% have BRCA2 mutations.
Other shared risk factors for breast and ovarian cancers may include:
- A family history of either cancer
- Older age, with ovarian cancer typically occurring in those over 40 years and breast cancer in those ages 55 years or older
- Overweight or obesity
- Having a first child over the age of 30
- Never having children
- Not breastfeeding
- Hormone therapy after menopause
People can potentially reduce their risk of breast and ovarian cancer by managing certain unchangeable risk factors, making lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, undergoing preventive medical procedures. For example, those with a history of breast or ovarian cancer may be advised to undergo more frequent and comprehensive screenings.
Healthcare professionals may suggest regular mammograms, breast MRI scans, pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and CA-125 blood tests for people at higher risk. Genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and other relevant mutations is also crucial for monitoring and prevention. For those carrying genetic mutations, doctors may consider additional options such as prophylactic surgeries to remove organs or tissues and prevent the occurrence or spread of cancer.
In terms of modifiable risk factors, achieving and maintaining a moderate weight, engaging in regular exercise, reducing alcohol intake, and limiting the use of oral contraceptives can potentially lower the risk of both breast and ovarian cancers.
A 2020 observational study suggests that people with both primary breast cancer 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.
A person's age during their first cancer diagnosis, the time between the two cancers, and various other factors can impact their outlook. If someone wants more information about their individual outlook, they should consult their healthcare team.
Individuals with ovarian cancer may also be at an increased risk of developing other types of cancer, such as bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, colorectal cancer, acute leukemia, and melanoma of the eye. Breast cancer can metastasize (spread) to the ovaries, although this is relatively uncommon. It is essential to speak with a doctor if signs or symptoms of breast or ovarian cancer appear, especially for those with a personal or family history of these diseases.
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, or are over 40 years old.
In summary, there is a strong link between breast cancer and ovarian cancer, primarily due to shared genetic mutations, particularly in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Additionally, a personal or family history of one cancer increases the risk of developing the other. This connection underscores the importance of genetic testing, regular screenings, and preventive measures for those at higher risk. People who have had breast or ovarian cancer can work with their healthcare team to monitor signs of another cancer.
- People with a family history of either breast or ovarian cancer may have an increased susceptibility to both types of cancer.
- Research suggests that individuals who carry mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which are significant shared risk factors, are around twice as likely to develop subsequent primary ovarian cancer if they have been diagnosed with breast cancer.
- Other shared risk factors for both breast and ovarian cancers include older age, obesity, never carrying a pregnancy to term, not breastfeeding, and hormone therapy after menopause.
- Achieving and maintaining a moderate weight, engaging in regular exercise, reducing alcohol intake, and limiting the use of oral contraceptives can potentially lower the risk of both breast and ovarian cancers.
- In terms of preventive measures, healthcare professionals may consider additional options such as prophylactic surgeries to remove organs or tissues and prevent the occurrence or spread of cancer for those carrying genetic 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, or are over 40 years old.
