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Study Shows Viruses Can Reactivate Breast Cancer

New research indicates respiratory infections may endanger breast cancer survivors.

July 31, 2025 at 04:47 AM

Common Viruses May Wake Dormant Breast Cancer Cells, Study Finds

New research highlights potential risks for breast cancer survivors linked to respiratory infections.

Common Viruses Reactivate Dormant Breast Cancer Cells

Recent research indicates that common respiratory viruses may trigger dormant breast cancer cells in survivors, leading to serious health implications. The study, stemming from observations during the COVID-19 pandemic, revealed that breast cancer patients in remission experienced increased risks associated with viral infections. Particularly, an analysis of patients in the UK Biobank reported double the likelihood of cancer-related deaths for those who had previously contracted SARS-CoV-2. Similarly, a separate American study identified a 40 percent rise in metastatic breast cancer risk among patients with prior COVID-19 infections. Researchers argue that these findings suggest that the immune response to viral infections, which can lead to inflammation, potentially reactivates dormant cancer cells, emphasizing the need for caution among survivors.

Key Takeaways

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Common respiratory viruses may reactivate dormant breast cancer cells.

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Cancer survivors must be cautious about respiratory infections.

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SARS-CoV-2 infections correlate with increased cancer death rates.

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Inflammation from viruses could create conditions for cancer growth.

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Research emphasizes risks for over 3.8 million breast cancer survivors in the US.

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Vaccination against influenza and COVID-19 may be crucial for this group.

"Dormant cancer cells are like the embers left in an abandoned campfire, and respiratory viruses are like a strong wind that reignites the flames."

James DeGregori explains the metaphorical relationship between dormant cells and respiratory viruses.

"It's a significant effect."

Roel Vermeulen highlights the substantial impact of respiratory infections on cancer patients.

"What our data suggest is that if you are a cancer patient with these dormant cells, your chance of dying from them awakening is much greater after a respiratory virus."

James DeGregori warns about the heightened risks for cancer survivors following viral infections.

This research uncovers an alarming connection between respiratory infections and the reactivation of dormant cancer cells in breast cancer survivors. It challenges the long-held belief that remission equates to safety from the disease. With millions of breast cancer survivors facing these risks, the implications extend beyond personal health, potentially straining healthcare systems. The call for further studies into the efficacy of vaccinations against such viruses highlights an urgent need for proactive measures to protect vulnerable populations.