Connection Between Breast and Ovarian Cancer: Implications and Risk Factors
Breast and ovarian cancer share a close bond, primarily due to genetic factors like BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations. The connection isn't exclusively about the diseases themselves but the underlying genetics. If someone's had breast cancer, they might have a heightened risk of ovarian cancer, especially if it involves BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations. Research indicates that people with breast cancer are approximately twice as likely to develop ovarian cancer later on [1].
Similarly, ovarian cancer may lead to a higher risk of breast cancer, though the risk evolves over time after the first cancer diagnosis. Moreover, people with ovarian cancer are at a higher risk of breast cancer due to genetic mutations [2].
Risk Factors Beyond Genetics
Besides genetics, other shared risk factors include:
- A family history of either cancer
- Older age, particularly for ovarian cancer (most cases occur after 40 years) and breast cancer ( predominantly in those age 55 or older)
- Overweight or obesity
- Never carrying a child to term
- No children
- Not breastfeeding
- Hormone therapy after menopause
It's worth noting that some risk factors, such as having had breast or ovarian cancer before, cannot be altered. Managing these unchangeable risk factors might involve careful monitoring, lifestyle changes, and, in specific instances, preventive medical procedures.
Intervention and Prevention
Healthcare professionals may suggest more frequent and thorough screenings for people with a history of breast or ovarian cancer to catch new cancers early. This may involve regular mammograms, breast MRI scans, pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and CA-125 blood tests. Genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and other related mutations is one of the best strategies for monitoring and prevention [2].
For those carrying genetic mutations, doctors might consider additional options such as prophylactic surgeries to prevent the occurrence or spread of cancer.
Modifiable Risk Factors
Some risk factors, like weight, alcohol intake, oral contraceptives, and regular exercise, can be modified to reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
Achieving and maintaining a moderate weight can lower the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Obesity might cause higher estrogen levels, which can contribute to the risk of breast cancer [1]. Regular physical activity has been linked to a lower risk of breast cancer, with limited evidence supporting a link with ovarian cancer as well. Exercise can help maintain a healthy weight and may have direct anticancer effects [3].
Reducing alcohol intake and considering oral contraceptives as birth control options can also influence the risk of breast and ovarian cancer [2]. It's essential to discuss contraception choices with a healthcare provider to evaluate the risks based on individual circumstances.
Outlook and Prognosis
A recent study suggests that individuals diagnosed 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 tends to be more positive if the interval between the two cancers is longer [3]. However, ovarian cancer that develops after breast cancer is often diagnosed at a later stage, negatively impacting survival [4].
Other factors, such as age at diagnosis and time between the two cancers, affect a person's overall prognosis. If someone desires more information about their individual outlook, they should consult their healthcare team [4].
When to Consult a Doctor
It's crucial to speak with a doctor if signs or symptoms of breast or ovarian cancer emerge, especially for those with a personal or family history of these diseases. Staying vigilant for signs of recurrence or another cancer after a previous diagnosis is essential, as early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for improving outcomes [4].
Resources and Additional Information
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References:[1] National Cancer Institute. (2019). Breast cancer and ovarian cancer: Questions and answers about genetic risk. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/hereditary/breast-ovarian-cancer-genetics-fact-sheet
[2] American Cancer Society. (2019). Genetic mutations for breast cancer and ovarian cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/genetic-risk-factors.html
[3] Owens, L. A., & Lantz, P. M. (2020). Breast cancer and ovarian cancer: Survival trends in the United States. Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, 29(4), 674-682. doi: 10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-19-0602.
[4] National Cancer Institute. (2020). Ovarian cancer survivors' experiences with follow-up care after treatment. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/survivorship/life-after-cancer/ovarian-cancer-follow-up-care-pdq#section/_19
- Managing genetic mutations associated with breast and ovarian cancer, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, is crucial for those at a heightened risk of these medical-conditions, as it may help prevent breast-cancer and ovarian-cancer.
- In addition to genetics, a family history of either breast or ovarian cancer, older age, overweight or obesity, not carrying a child to term, no children, not breastfeeding, hormone therapy after menopause, and other modifiable risk factors can increase one's risk of developing these cancers.
- For those carrying genetic mutations, healthcare professionals might consider prophylactic surgeries as a preventive measure against breast and ovarian cancer.
- Regular physical activity can lower the risk of breast cancer and may have direct anticancer effects, while maintaining a moderate weight can reduce the risk of both breast and ovarian cancer.
- Reducing alcohol intake and considering oral contraceptives as birth control options can influence the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, but it's essential to discuss these choices with a healthcare provider.
- Individuals diagnosed with both primary breast cancer and primary ovarian cancer have relatively favorable outlooks, with 5- and 10-year overall survival rates of around 90%. However, ovarian cancer that develops after breast cancer is often diagnosed at a later stage, negatively impacting survival.
