Research has found that individuals with a history of breast cancer are at an increased risk of developing other types of cancer.
A study published in The Lancet Regional Health reveals that both men and women with a history of breast cancer are at a higher risk of developing other types of cancer.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge reported that in women with a history of breast cancer, the risk of developing endometrial cancer was 87% higher, the risk of developing myeloid leukemia was 58% higher, and the risk of developing ovarian cancer was 25% higher.
In men, the risk of developing pancreatic cancer was 62% higher, the risk of developing myeloid leukemia was 31% higher, and the risk of developing colon cancer was 17% higher. However, the researchers noted that cases of breast cancer in men are rare.
From 1995 to 2019, there were 581,403 female breast cancer survivors, but male survivors were only 3,562. According to previous research, the risk of developing another type of cancer was 24% and 27% higher for women and men, respectively, who had a history of breast cancer.
Experts say there is no definitive reason why the risk of developing another cancer is higher in patients with a history of cancer.
However, well-known treatments such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy used in the cancer treatment process can lead to myeloid leukemia and lymphocytic leukemia. The researchers also added that patients who experienced cancer at a young age may have a higher genetic risk, increasing the chances of developing another type of cancer.
Meanwhile, some experts point out the correlation between socioeconomic factors and cancer, arguing that patients living in impoverished socio-economic conditions are at a higher risk of developing another type of cancer after surviving one.
Experts find this phenomenon concerning but not surprising. They emphasize the need for fair access to breast cancer screenings, treatment, and education.
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