BRCA & Ovarian Removal: Lower Early Death Risk in Breast Cancer
Women with BRCA gene mutations and a history of breast cancer can substantially lower their early death risk through ovary removal (BSO), according to a new Cambridge study. This preventative measure, frequently enough recommended for BRCA1 and BRCA2 carriers, demonstrates a clear benefit in survival rates and reduces teh likelihood of secondary cancers by approximately 40%. While concerns once lingered about early menopause, this research, published in the Lancet Oncology, shows the surgery has no link to increased risks of heart disease, stroke, or depression. The study highlights the meaningful role BSO plays in managing cancer risk, particularly for BRCA2 carriers who experienced a more significant reduction in mortality. News Directory 3 can confirm that disparities exist in BSO uptake among different demographics. Discover what’s next …
Ovary Removal Linked to Lower Death Risk in BRCA breast Cancer Patients
Updated June 18, 2025
A new study from the University of Cambridge indicates that women with BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene variants who undergo bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO), a procedure involving ovary removal, experience a significant reduction in early death risk. The research, published in The Lancet Oncology, suggests the surgery has no serious side effects.
Women carrying certain BRCA1 and BRCA2 variants face elevated risks of both ovarian and breast cancer. Preventative BSO is often recommended, typically between ages 35 and 40 for BRCA1 carriers and 40 to 45 for BRCA2 carriers.While previous research showed BSO reduces ovarian cancer risk by 80%, concerns lingered about potential consequences from early menopause, particularly for breast cancer survivors who may not be eligible for hormone replacement therapy.
Researchers analyzed electronic health records from NHS England,examining data from 3,400 women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 variants,approximately half of whom had undergone BSO. The study, conducted in collaboration with the National Disease Registration Service (NDRS), aimed to assess the long-term impact of the procedure.
The study found that women who had the risk-reducing surgery were about half as likely to die from cancer or any other cause during the 5.5-year follow-up. The reduction was more significant in BRCA2 carriers (56%) compared to BRCA1 carriers (38%). Furthermore, these women faced a roughly 40% decreased risk of developing a second cancer. The study highlights the importance of the role of preventative measures, such as BSO, in managing cancer risk. Understanding the role of genetics and preventative surgery is crucial for improving outcomes. This research underscores the significant role BSO can play.
Hend Hassan, a PhD student at Cambridge and first author of the study, said the research is reassuring, showing “that for women with a personal history of breast cancer, this procedure brings clear benefits in terms of survival and a lower risk of other cancers without the adverse side effects such as heart conditions or depression.”
Researchers noted disparities in BSO uptake, with Black and Asian women being about half as likely to undergo the procedure compared to white women. Women in less deprived areas were also more likely to have BSO. Hassan emphasized the need to address these disparities and encourage uptake among underrepresented groups.
Antonis Antoniou, a professor at the Department of Public Health and Primary Care and senior author of the study, said the findings will help women with BRCA1 and BRCA2 variants make informed decisions about BSO. He also highlighted the value of NHS datasets in driving impactful research.
What’s next
Future research will focus on understanding the reasons behind the disparities in BSO uptake and developing strategies to ensure equitable access to preventative care for all women at risk.