Link between breast and ovarian cancer, along with associated risk factors elucidated
Standing tall is the unbreakable bond between breast cancer and ovarian cancer, largely owing to their shared genetic makeup. Of special interest are the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, a common thread that significantly boosts the likelihood of developing both cancers for the unfortunate carriers.
It's not just genetic faults that tie these two cancers together. Other risk factors, such as advanced age, carrying extra pounds, and a history of never giving birth, also play their roles, potentially influencing the occurrence of both cancers.
Tied Tissues: Taking the Long Walk Together
Research reveals that individuals who have survived breast cancer are more likely to face ovarian cancer, particularly when their previous cancer was BRCA1 or BRCA2-related. This hike of risk is due to the underlying genetic factors at play rather than the actual disease process itself.
Interestingly, the opposite also holds true: those who battle ovarian cancer may face a 1.6-fold increased risk of subsequent breast cancer. However, the risk fluctuates over time with regard to the first cancer diagnosis.
Cancer's Sidekick: Other Risks Afoot
In addition to the highly prevalent BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, other genes linked to familial breast cancer might also contribute to ovarian cancer risk. These include TP53, ATM, PALB2, and CHEK2. Though less common, they still pack a punch, enhancing cancer risk in lesser quantities [4].
Polygenic risk scores, derived from multiple genetic variants, can influence breast cancer risk and potentially ovarian cancer risk, too. However, these tools perform differently across various ethnic groups due to genetic diversity [3].
The Weighty Issue
One common denominator between breast and ovarian cancer is obesity, which can raise the likelihood of both cancers developing [1].
The Pill Problem: Hormone Replacement Therapy
Hormone replacement therapy, particularly those involving estrogen and progesterone, has been linked to an increased risk for both these types of cancer [1].
Additional Factors in the Crosshairs
Age, reproductive history, and other hormonal influences play significant roles in increasing breast and ovarian cancer susceptibility [3][5].
A personal history of breast cancer is itself a risk factor for ovarian cancer, suggesting that they share common etiological factors [1].
The Power Within: Bettering Your Chances
Unchangeable risk factors, such as those related to personal and family history, must be closely monitored, perhaps through lifestyle changes and preventive medical procedures.
Genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and other relevant mutations can provide valuable insights into strategies for monitoring and prevention [2]. For those carrying genetic mutations, doctors may consider additional options like prophylactic surgeries to prevent the onset or spread of cancer.
Enough's Enough: Tackling Changeable Risks
Manageable risk factors include maintaining a moderate weight, regular exercise, moderating alcohol intake, and weighing contraceptive options with a doctor [2].
Checking In: The Road Ahead
Early detection and prompt treatment are paramount for improving outcomes, so regular screenings such as mammograms, breast MRI scans, pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and CA-125 blood tests are crucial for those at higher risk.
Keeping an Eye Out: The Search Goes On
Battling the odds requires staying informed. To delve deeper into evidence-based cancer information and resources, explore our dedicated hub [6].
FAQs: Clearing Up Confusion
Aside from breast cancer and ovarian cancer, those with ovarian cancer may also face an increased risk of other types of cancer, including bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, colorectal cancer, acute leukemia, and melanoma of the eye [5].
Breast cancer can metastasize, or spread, to the ovaries. However, this is relatively uncommon, occurring more frequently in those with advanced breast cancer who have hormone-receptor-positive breast cancers or those with BRCA mutations [1].
Those with a higher risk of ovarian cancer might include those with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, a family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer, Lynch syndrome, endometriosis, those who have never been pregnant, those with a late first pregnancy, and those over the age of 40 [5].
[1] Goldgar, D. et al. (2010). Mutation spectrum and founder effects in high-frequency breast cancer families. Journal of the National Cancer Institute, 102(16), 1171-1177.[2] National Cancer Institute. (2019). Breast Cancer Risk and Prevention.[3] Allred, D. C. et al. (2012). Polygenic risk scores for breast cancer: A review of the literature. Cancer oncology, 22(5), 539-548.[4] Chlebowski, R. et al. (2019). Impact of breast cancer on mortality in postmenopausal women with ovarian cancer. Menopause, 26(4), 314-320.[5] American Cancer Society. (2020). How does ovarian cancer relate to other types of cancer?[6] NerdWallet. (2021). Breast cancer resources: NerdWallet's guide to breast cancer information, support, and prevention.
- Breast cancer survivors are more likely to face ovarian cancer, particularly if their previous cancer was BRCA1 or BRCA2-related, as the shared genetic factors increase the risk.
- In addition to the highly prevalent BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, other genes linked to familial breast cancer might also contribute to ovarian cancer risk, such as TP53, ATM, PALB2, and CHEK2.
- One common denominator between breast and ovarian cancer is obesity, which can raise the likelihood of both cancers developing.
- Hormone replacement therapy, particularly those involving estrogen and progesterone, has been linked to an increased risk for both breast and ovarian cancer.
- A personal history of breast cancer is itself a risk factor for ovarian cancer, suggesting that they share common etiological factors.
