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

Abstract

Purpose: 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).

Methods: 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.

Results: 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.

Conclusion: 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.