Link between Breast and Ovarian Cancer, Identified Risk Factors
Breast and Ovarian Cancer Share Genetic and Lifestyle Risk Factors, Increasing the Risk of Each Other
A link has been established between breast cancer and ovarian cancer, primarily due to shared genetic mutations. This connection is particularly significant for individuals who carry mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
Individuals with these risk factors may have an increased susceptibility to both cancers. Other shared risk factors include older age, overweight or obesity, and never carrying a pregnancy to term. In some cases, these risks may be modifiable through lifestyle changes.
Those who have been diagnosed with breast cancer may have an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer. This risk is particularly elevated for those with breast cancer linked to genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2. However, the risk increase is due to the underlying genetic factors, not the disease itself. Research suggests that people with breast cancer are approximately twice as likely to develop subsequent primary ovarian cancer.
Similarly, individuals with ovarian cancer may have an increased risk of developing breast cancer. This risk may be attributed to genetic mutations.
Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are the most significant shared risk factors. Around 50-60% of families with ovarian and breast cancer have BRCA1 gene mutations, while approximately 20% have BRCA2 mutations. Other shared risk factors may include:
- a family history of either cancer
- older age, with ovarian cancer typically occurring in people over 40 years and breast cancer in those ages 55 years or older
- overweight or obesity
- having a first child after age 30
- never having children
- not breastfeeding
- hormone therapy after menopause
Managing risk factors that are unchangeable, such as a history of breast or ovarian cancer, may involve careful monitoring, lifestyle changes, and preventive medical procedures. For those carrying genetic mutations, doctors may consider additional options such as prophylactic surgeries to prevent the occurrence or spread of cancer.
Modifiable risk factors include achieving and maintaining a moderate weight, regular exercise, reducing alcohol intake, and discussing contraception options with a doctor.
A 2020 observational study suggests that people with both primary breast cancer and primary ovarian cancer have relatively favorable overall survival rates, with 5- and 10-year rates around 90%. The outlook is generally more positive when the interval between the two diseases is longer. It is essential to consult a healthcare team for more information about an individual's outlook.
Individuals with signs or symptoms of breast or ovarian cancer or a personal or family history of these diseases should speak with a doctor. Staying vigilant for signs of recurrence or a second cancer after a previous diagnosis is crucial for early detection and prompt treatment, improving outcomes.
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FAQ
- People with ovarian cancer may have an increased risk of developing the following cancers: breast cancer, bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, colorectal cancer, acute leukemia, and melanoma of the eye.
- Breast cancer can metastasize to the ovaries, although it is relatively uncommon. This may be more likely in breast cancers that are hormone receptor-positive or in people with BRCA mutations.
- High-risk factors for ovarian cancer include 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, and age over 40 years.
Summary
A connection exists between breast and ovarian cancer, primarily due to shared genetic mutations, particularly in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Understanding these genetic and lifestyle factors is crucial for early detection and preventive measures. By working closely with their healthcare team, individuals can take steps to manage their risk and improve outcomes.
- The connection between breast cancer and ovarian cancer is largely due to shared genetic mutations, particularly in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
- Those who have been diagnosed with breast cancer may have an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer, and vice versa, due to underlying genetic factors.
- Modifiable risk factors for both breast and ovarian cancer include maintaining a moderate weight, regular exercise, reducing alcohol intake, and discussing contraception options with a doctor.
- Managing risk factors that are unchangeable, such as a history of breast or ovarian cancer, may involve careful monitoring, lifestyle changes, and preventive medical procedures.
- For individuals with mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, doctors may consider additional options such as prophylactic surgeries to prevent the occurrence or spread of cancer.
- People with ovarian cancer may have an increased risk of developing other cancers such as breast cancer, bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, colorectal cancer, acute leukemia, and melanoma of the eye.
