A recent study published in The Lancet Regional Health journal found that individuals who have had breast cancer are at a 25% increased risk of developing a second cancer later in life. Female survivors of breast cancer had an 87% higher risk of endometrial cancer compared to their peers, while male survivors had a 62% higher risk of pancreatic cancer. Male breast cancer survivors made up a small portion of the study cohort, but were still found to have an increased risk of certain secondary cancers.
Radiation therapy and chemotherapy have been linked to higher risks of developing secondary cancers, such as leukemia, in cancer survivors. The age at which someone was diagnosed with cancer also affects their risk of developing a second cancer later in life. Women diagnosed with breast cancer before age 50 had an 86% higher risk of developing a second primary cancer compared to those diagnosed after age 50. This could be due to genetic predispositions in younger breast cancer patients.
According to Dr. Daniel Landau, a hematologist/oncologist, many cancers are known to have associations with other cancers later on, including breast cancer. Genetic mutations, such as the BRCA gene, can increase the risk of developing multiple types of cancer. Despite the high quality of the study, further research will be necessary to confirm the findings. Prospective studies, which follow patients forward over time, are preferred for directly proving associations.
The study also found that socioeconomic factors can influence the risk of developing a second cancer among breast cancer survivors. Individuals in the most socioeconomically deprived quintile had a 35% higher risk of second primary cancer compared to those in the least deprived group. Lack of access to breast cancer resources in underserved communities is a common issue that can impact cancer recurrence rates. Advocacy for equitable access to breast cancer screenings, treatment, and education is important for reducing disparities in cancer care.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a healthy weight, not smoking, limiting alcohol intake, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly, can help reduce the risk of developing both primary and secondary cancers. Lifestyle factors play a significant role in cancer risk, and addressing these factors can help lower the overall burden of cancer in individuals. The study’s findings highlight the importance of ongoing research to better understand the link between breast cancer survivorship and the risk of developing secondary cancers, as well as the impact of socioeconomic factors on cancer outcomes.