The relationship between ovarian and colorectal cancers: a systematic review and meta-analysis

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine the relationship between ovarian and colorectal cancer, with a particular focus on the standardized incidence ratio (SIR).

A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar. A total of 20 studies were included in the final analysis.

The results indicated that women with ovarian cancer had a significantly higher incidence of colorectal cancer (SIR, 1.69; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.39-1.98), with an increased risk for both colon (SIR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.14-1.99) and rectal cancers (SIR, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.38-1.78). Subgroup analysis of borderline ovarian tumor revealed an SIR for colorectal cancer of 1.27 (95% CI, 0.99-1.55), with a significant risk in the serous subtype (SIR, 1.38; 95% CI, 1.09-1.67). Conversely, studies examining ovarian cancer in women diagnosed with colorectal cancer showed an SIR of 1.48 (95% CI, 1.17-1.79). Specifically, women with colon cancer had a higher incidence of ovarian cancer (SIR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.25-2.03), while women with rectal cancer showed a decreased risk (SIR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.77-0.99). The results underscore the potential bidirectional relationship between ovarian and colorectal cancers, which may be influenced by genetic predispositions.

Future advanced genetic studies are needed to better understand the underlying molecular mechanisms. Additionally, the results emphasize the importance of careful cancer surveillance and early detection strategies for women with a history of either ovarian cancer or colorectal cancer.