Connection between Breast and Ovarian Cancer: Shared Links and Risk Factors
Breast and Ovarian Cancers Share Genetic Risk Factors Leading to Increased Risk for Both
Research indicates a strong link between breast and ovarian cancers, primarily due to shared genetic mutations, particularly in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. People with these mutations have a significantly higher risk of developing both cancers.
Additionally, a personal or family history of one cancer increases the risk of developing the other. This link highlights the importance of genetic testing, regular screenings, and preventive measures for those at higher risk.
BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations
Mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are the most significant shared risk factors for developing both breast and ovarian cancers. Around 5-10% of families with either cancer have BRCA1 gene mutations, while around 20% have BRCA2 mutations.
Other shared genetic risk factors
Other genetic risk factors for both cancers may include:
- ATM mutations, which are associated with a higher risk of breast and, to a lesser extent, ovarian cancer. ATM is involved in DNA repair, and its dysfunction can lead to increased susceptibility to cancer.
- TP53 mutations, which significantly increase cancer risk, including for breast and ovarian cancers, especially in individuals with Li-Fraumeni syndrome.
- PTEN mutations, which are most strongly linked to Cowden syndrome, raising the risk for breast, thyroid, and endometrial cancers. While ovarian cancer risk is less prominent, PTEN dysfunction is still considered a relevant risk factor in certain genetic contexts.
- STK11 mutations, associated with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, which raises the risk of breast and ovarian cancers among other malignancies.
Other breast cancer risk factors
In addition to genetic factors, other shared risk factors for breast cancer may include:
- Age, with breast cancer typically occurring in those ages 55 years or older.
- Overweight or obesity, which can cause higher estrogen levels, increasing the risk of breast cancer.
- Having a first child over the age of 30.
- Never having children.
- Not breastfeeding.
- Hormone therapy after menopause.
Can people reduce the risk?
Managing unchangeable risk factors, such as having had breast or ovarian cancer previously, may involve careful monitoring, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, preventive medical procedures.
Healthcare professionals may suggest:
- Regular mammograms.
- Breast MRI scans.
- Pelvic exams.
- Transvaginal ultrasounds.
- CA-125 blood tests.
Genetic testing for genetic mutations is the best strategy for monitoring and prevention. For those carrying genetic mutations, doctors may consider additional options such as prophylactic surgeries.
Outlook
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%. Various factors can affect a person's outlook. If someone wants more information about their individual outlook, they can speak with their healthcare team.
When to speak with a doctor
People should 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. It is essential to stay vigilant for signs of recurrence or a second cancer after a previous diagnosis of breast or ovarian cancer. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for improving outcomes.
FAQ
Q: What are other cancers people with ovarian cancer may have an increased risk of?A: Bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, colorectal cancer, acute leukemia, and melanoma of the eye.
Q: Can breast cancer metastasize to the ovaries?A: Breast cancer can metastasize to the ovaries, but it is relatively uncommon.
Q: Who is at high risk of ovarian cancer?A: 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, and are over 40 years old.
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People with mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes have a significantly higher risk of developing both breast and ovarian cancers, with around 5-10% and 20% of families having these mutations, respectively. Other genetic risk factors for both cancers include ATM, TP53, PTEN, and STK11 mutations. Age, overweight or obesity, having a first child over the age of 30, never having children, not breastfeeding, and hormone therapy after menopause are additional breast cancer risk factors, while other cancers people with ovarian cancer may have an increased risk of include bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, colorectal cancer, acute leukemia, and melanoma of the eye.
People with a personal or family history of breast or ovarian cancer should speak with their healthcare team for regular screenings, lifestyle changes, and, if necessary, preventive medical procedures. There are various options such as regular mammograms, breast MRI scans, pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and CA-125 blood tests for monitoring and prevention. For those carrying genetic mutations, doctors may consider additional options such as prophylactic surgeries.
Genetic testing for genetic mutations is essential, as it offers the best strategy for monitoring and prevention. An observational study in 2020 concluded that people with both primary breast cancer and primary ovarian cancer had a relatively favorable outlook, with 5- and 10-year overall survival rates around 90%. However, individual outlooks may vary depending on various factors. Speak with a doctor if signs or symptoms of breast or ovarian cancer appear or for those with a personal or family history of these diseases to be vigilant for signs of recurrence or a second cancer after a previous diagnosis.
