Study Reveals COVID-19 and Flu Can Reactivate Dormant Breast Cancer Cells

A Nature study finds that respiratory infections like COVID-19 and influenza can awaken dormant breast cancer cells in the lungs, increasing the risk of metastasis. Learn about key findings, IL-6 trigger, and implications for cancer survivors.

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Context

  • Recently published in Nature, a groundbreaking study has revealed that common respiratory infections like COVID-19 and influenza can awaken dormant breast cancer cells lodged in the lungs. 

About Breast Cancer

  • One of the most common cancers in women and people assigned female at birth (AFAВ). 
  • Caused by uncontrolled growth of cancerous cells in the breast. 
  • About 80% of cases are invasive, meaning the cancer can spread to other parts of the body.

Key Findings

  • Using mouse models that mimic human breast cancer metastasis, researchers discovered that SARS-CoV-2 and influenza infections reawaken dormant cancer cells (DCCs) in the lungs. 
  • This reactivation led to rapid development of aggressive metastatic tumors within days.

Molecular Trigger

  • Interleukin-6 (IL-6), a pro-inflammatory molecule released during infections, was identified as the key driver of DCC reactivation. 
  • Blocking IL-6 could potentially prevent metastasis following respiratory infections. 

Human Data Reinforces the Risk

  • Among cancer survivors (in remission 25 years), those infected with COVID-19 had nearly twice the risk of cancer-related death (excluding COVID fatalities).  
  • Among 36,000+ breast cancer patients, those with COVID-19 were 50% more likely to develop lung metastases compared to uninfected peers. • 
  • The study highlights the importance of vaccinations and continued medical follow-up for cancer survivors. 
  • The research deepens awareness of how post-viral effects extend beyond the acute illness.


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