Here we are going to share information on the topic “ovary and breast cancer’s relationship.” In order to improve prevention, diagnostic, and treatment strategies, it is imperative that we comprehend the interrelationships among various forms of cancer.
One of the biggest global health concerns for women is ovarian and breast cancer. Upon concentrating on these two types of cancer, it is evident that although they differ in character and consequences, recent studies and medical observations have shown a network of genetic and molecular connections that unite them.
ovary and breast cancer’s relationship
Oftentimes, this genetic association is denoted as hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome (HBOC syndrome).
What is the condition causing hereditary ovarian and breast cancer?
A genetic disorder known as hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome (HBOC syndrome) markedly increases the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer. BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations are the main causes of this syndrome.
BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic abnormalities are thought to be responsible for 5–10% of breast cancer cases. Dr. Candy Arentz, a Houston Methodist breast surgeon, states that one in 400 women carries the BRCA mutation, which significantly increases their risk of getting breast and ovarian cancer.
A patient’s medical history or family history may contain certain risk factors that point to a hereditary propensity to develop ovarian cancer, such as:
- A breast cancer diagnosis at 50 years of age or younger
- Dual breast cancers in you, a close relative, or a family member
- An ovarian cancer diagnosis was made for a close family member (mother, daughter, sister, grandmother, granddaughter, niece).
- Male breast cancer in a father, brother, uncle, or grandfather
- Diagnosed at 60 years of age or younger with triple-negative breast cancer (a tumor that lacks estrogen, progesterone and HER2 receptors),
- Jews of Ashkenazi descent
- A family history of a previously discovered BRCA mutation
Should any of these resonate with you, you might wish to discuss genetic counselling and cancer screening with your physician.
How often is ovarian and breast cancer syndrome in hereditary forms?
It is well known that people with HBOC syndrome have an increased chance of developing cancer. To what extent, though, is that elevated risk elevated?
Risk of breast cancer with HBOC syndrome
Approximately one in ten women may experience breast cancer at some point in their lives, according to the National Cancer Institute. Women who inherit a dangerous mutation of BRCA are at increased risk. By the time they are 70–80 years old, about 6 out of 10 women with a BRCA1 mutation and 4 out of 10 women with a BRCA2 mutation will have breast cancer.
Risk of ovarian cancer with HBOC syndrome
Additionally, the National Cancer Institute assesses the risk of ovarian cancer, claiming that little over 1 percent of women may experience the disease at some point in their lives. For women who inherit a deleterious form of BRCA, their chance of ovarian cancer increases, similarly to how HBOC influences breast cancer risk. By the time they are 70–80 years old, ovarian cancer will strike up to 44 percent of women with a BRCA1 mutation and up to 17 percent of women with a BRCA2 mutation.
How can you determine whether your BRCA genes are mutated?
Genetic testing is required to find out if you have gene mutations, and this is usually advised after a risk assessment. This evaluation takes into account your individual and family medical history, searching for markers such as a history of ovarian or breast cancer, or heritage associated with increased frequencies of BRCA mutations. Before and after testing, genetic counselling is suggested to help comprehend the significance of the test results. Typically, the test involves taking a sample of saliva or blood, which is then tested in a lab for BRCA mutations.
A good result has important ramifications; it frequently prompts conversations about preventive measures and more thorough cancer tests. It’s imperative that you work with medical professionals—genetic counsellors in particular—to properly comprehend the process and the implications for your family’s health.
What signs of ovarian cancer are present?
According to Houston Methodist Cancer Center gynecologic oncologist Dr. Tarik Zaid, “early symptoms are modest and mirror other benign common illnesses.” However, a comprehensive examination with your physician may be necessary if any of these symptoms persist for a few weeks in order to identify the underlying reason and rule out the extremely unlikely potential of ovarian cancer.
Signs of ovarian cancer to be aware of:
- Breathlessness
- Bloating or swelling in the abdomen
- Abdominal, lower back, or pelvic pain
- Difficult sexual relations
- recurring urge to urinate
- Having trouble eating or feeling full
According to Dr. Zaid, “early identification increases prognosis and treatment rates.” “Unfortunately, though, because of the nebulous symptoms, the majority of women present at an advanced stage.”
How is cancer of the ovaries treated?
Surgery is usually used to remove the tumor or tumor’s, and chemotherapy is used to eradicate any cancer cells that may still be present. Bevacizumab, which deprives the tumor of its blood supply, and PARP inhibitors, a class of targeted medications that may increase survival rates, are potential further treatments.
According to Dr. Zaid, “women who are detected with mutations before cancer development can undergo operations to minimize their risk.”
According to Dr. Arentz, “some women at very strong risk undergo preventative (prophylactic) surgery to help avoid future malignancies.” For instance, a prophylactic mastectomy can reduce the risk of developing breast cancer in the future by up to 90%. Women with a BRCA mutation may see an 80–90% reduction in their chance of developing ovarian cancer with an oophorectomy, or surgical removal of the ovaries.
To be in charge is to be conscious
It’s crucial to keep in mind that not all women with genetic alterations linked to ovarian and breast cancer will experience the illness. The best course of action is to be aware of your high risk, talk to your doctor about it, be familiar with the signs, and undergo routine screenings like mammograms and gynaecological exams.
Frequently Asked Questions
ovary and breast cancer’s relationship
Does ovarian cancer have a connection to breast cancer?
Answer: BRCA1 and BRCA2 are the two main genes associated with most HBOC families. Breast cancer is referred to as BRCA. A detrimental genetic alteration, known as a “mutation,” in either BRCA1 or BRCA2 increases a woman’s lifelong risk of getting ovarian and breast malignancies.
Which cancers have ovarian cancer as a link?
Answer: A higher risk of ovarian cancer is associated with a family history of certain other cancers, such as colorectal and breast cancer. This is due to the possibility that inherited mutations in specific genes, which result in a family cancer syndrome and raise the risk of ovarian cancer, could be the origin of these tumours.
What connection exists between breast cancer and the ovaries?
Answer: estrogen-receptor positive, or ER+, breast cancers are what these are called. The ovaries are the primary source of oestrogen before menopause. Less oestrogen in the body aids in the growth of cancer if the ovaries are destroyed or rendered inoperable.
What is the rate of survival for ovarian and breast cancers?
Answer: For the total group, the 5-year and 10-year OS rates were 81.7 percent and 67.4 percent, respectively. For ovarian cancer, the 5-year and 10-year CSS rates were 84.2 percent and 74.3 percent, respectively, while for breast cancer, they were 76.0 percent and 67.8 percent.
Are ovarian cysts and breast cancer related?
Answer: An ovarian cyst diagnosis is probably a sign of an altered hormonal environment, which could increase the risk of breast cancer. According to recent research, the chance of developing breast cancer is inversely correlated with a prior diagnosis of ovarian cysts.
What makes breast cancer more likely?
Answer: Drinking alcohol: Frequent alcohol consumption raises the risk of breast cancer. Hormone usage: Breast cancer risk increases if you use hormone replacement treatment during menopause for longer than five years. Certain birth control pills, or oral contraceptives, also increase your risk.
For what people is breast cancer at high risk?
Answer: What Are the Breast Cancer Risk Factors? | CDC
Women who are more likely to develop breast and ovarian cancer are those who have inherited variations, or mutations, to specific genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2. Women are more exposed to hormones when they begin menstruation before the age of 12 and enter menopause beyond the age of 55, which increases their risk of developing breast cancer.
For whom is ovarian cancer at high risk?
Answer: Age. No matter their age, all women are susceptible to ovarian cancer; however, the risk of ovarian cancer is highest in those between the ages of 55 and 64. With a median diagnosis age of 63, half of women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer before the age of 63, while the other half are diagnosed after that age.
Conclusion
ovary and breast cancer’s relationship
In summary, the connection between breast and ovarian cancer highlights the intricacy of cancer biology and the interdependence of many cancer kinds. Despite being separate illnesses, ovarian and breast cancers are predisposed to each other by a number of genetic alterations and risk factors, including BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations. In addition, family history and hormones are important contributors to the development of many tumors.
For the purposes of early identification, prevention, and treatment, it is essential to comprehend the connection between ovarian and breast cancer. For those who are more susceptible to developing certain cancers, genetic testing, routine screenings, and proactive lifestyle decisions can help reduce risk factors and enhance outcomes. Better knowledge and management of the intricacies of ovarian and breast cancer are possible with further research and breakthroughs in cancer treatment, which will ultimately enhance patient care and outcomes.
So, this is how the topic “ovary and breast cancer’s relationship” has been addressed.
For more information related to these topics,
You may also visit our Instagram page by
Thank you!