Link between Breast and Ovarian Cancer: Key Risk Factors Identified
Sure thing, let's dive into the world of breast and ovarian cancer, two scoundrels that share more than just a name.
If you got titted up with breast cancer, you might wanna watch your lower belly, too. That's because folks who've battled breast cancer have a higher chance of developing ovarian cancer. This is especially true if the breast cancer's got its roots in BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations. But don't sweat, it's usually due to those pesky genetics, not the f*cking cancer itself.
Research shows that people with breast cancer might be almost twice as likely to catch ovarian cancer. On the flip side, them ovarian cancer sufferers have a higher probability of developing breast cancer, with the risk fluctuating depending on the time since the initial diagnosis.
Now, ovaries and breasts share some risk factors - aging, extra weight or obesity, and knocking up for the first time aged 30 or later are all culprits. And while not all these factors can be controlled, working on those that can be, such as maintaining a moderate weight, can help lower the risks.
Are breast and ovarian cancers linked?
You bet your sweet ass they are, partner.
In fact, approximately a fifth to a quarter of families with both breast and ovarian cancer carry mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Shocker? Not really, considering around 65% of families with ovarian cancer and about 15% of families with breast cancer have BRCA1 mutations, while around 20% of both cases involve BRCA2 mutations.
Family history, age, weight, pregnancy history, and hormone therapy can all affect the risk of both cancers. And don't forget that those battling breast or ovarian cancer have an increased risk of the other, particularly if the mutations are BRCA1 or BRCA2.
Can people reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancer?
There are some bonafide ways to decrease the risk, such as keeping a moderate weight, regular exercise, and limiting booze. However, factors like having already battled these cancers can't be changed, so constant monitoring, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, prophylactic medical procedures might be necessary.
For instance, if you're a repeat offender with either breast or ovarian cancer, they'll probably suggest you undergo more frequent and thorough screenings, such as mammograms, breast MRI scans, pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and CA-125 blood tests. Genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and other mutations is also a top-tier strategy for monitoring and prevention, especially for those carrying these genetic mutations.
And for the ever-cautious, doctors may consider additional options such as prophylactic surgeries to remove organs or tissues and prevent the occurrence or spread of cancer.
Other risk factors for breast and ovarian cancers
Apart from the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, the Hall of Shame for shared risk factors includes family history, older age, excessive weight, late first pregnancy, never being pregnant, no breastfeeding, and hormone therapy after menopause.
What's the outlook for those battling breast and ovarian cancer?
A 2020 observational study found that people with both primary breast cancer and primary ovarian cancer have a relatively optimistic outlook, with 5- and 10-year overall survival rates estimated to be around 90%. That's some good news, huh?
The outlook is usually better when the interval between the two cancers is longer, but ovarian cancer following breast cancer is often diagnosed at a later stage, which can impact the survival rate. The age during the first cancer diagnosis and the time between the two cancers are significant predictors of overall survival.
People curious about their individual outlook can speak with their healthcare team for more information.
When to speak with a doctor
If you're experiencing symptoms or worrying about recurrences or a second cancer, you should definitely chat with your doctor. Early detection and quick treatment are key to improvement.
Keep in mind that maintaining awareness for signs of cancer after a previous diagnosis is essential.
Cancer resources
If you're yearning for more scientifically sound and up-to-date information on cancer, be sure to check out our dedicated hub. There are loads of handy resources available!
Frequently asked questions
People with ovarian cancer may have an increased risk of additional cancers, such as:
- bladder cancer
- bile duct cancer
- colorectal cancer
- acute leukemia
- melanoma of the eye
Breast cancer can metastasize to the ovaries, but it's relatively uncommon, particularly in folks with early-stage breast cancer. Anyone at high risk of ovarian cancer may include those with:
- BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations
- family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer
- Lynch syndrome
- endometriosis
- never been pregnant
- had a late first pregnancy
- aged 40 or older
Summary
There's a significant link between breast cancer and ovarian cancer, largely due to the fact that these cancers share underlying genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2. It pays to know your family history and get checked if you have reason to be concerned about your risk.
At the end of the day, being vigilant, proactive, and armed with knowledge is the best defense against these cancers. Don't be a pushover – stomp out cancer before it's a problem!
- In the realm of breast and ovarian cancer, both cancers share a strong link, particularly if they involve BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations.
- Approximately a fifth to a quarter of families with both breast and ovarian cancer carry mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
- Family history, age, weight, pregnancy history, and hormone therapy can all affect the risk of both cancers.
- People with both primary breast cancer and primary ovarian cancer have a relatively optimistic outlook, with 5- and 10-year overall survival rates estimated to be around 90%.
- For those who have battled either breast or ovarian cancer, constant monitoring, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, prophylactic medical procedures may be necessary.
- Apart from the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, other shared risk factors include family history, older age, excessive weight, late first pregnancy, never being pregnant, no breastfeeding, and hormone therapy after menopause.
- If you're experiencing symptoms or worrying about recurrences or a second cancer, you should definitely chat with your doctor. Early detection and quick treatment are key to improvement.
- Other than breast and ovarian cancer, people with ovarian cancer may have an increased risk of additional cancers such as bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, colorectal cancer, acute leukemia, and melanoma of the eye.
