Women diagnosed with breast cancer can reduce the risk of death by 62 percent if their ovaries are removed, according to a study released by the Women's College Research Institute in Canada.

The study, published by JAMA Oncology, highlights the association of "oophorectomy" or the process of removing ovaries with the decrease in mortality among women at the early stage of breast cancer.

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The researchers studied 676 women with breast cancer carrying either the BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation. In this group, 345 of them underwent oophorectomy while 331 did not. They were observed for 20 years.

The result was a survival rate of 77.4 percent for the whole group.

The mortality rate among those that had their ovaries removed was reduced by 56 percent. In contrast, nine women who kept both their ovaries further developed ovarian cancer and died.

Moreover, women that carried the BRCA1 gene mutation and underwent oophorectomy reduced the risk of death by 62 percent. Those that had the BRCA2 mutation only had 43 percent reduction in death probability even if they had their ovaries removed, however.

"The results provide a validation of the role of oophorectomy in conveying both a disease-free and overall survival benefit for BRCA1 mutation carriers," said study author Dr. Mary Disis.

But not for those with BRCA2 gene mutation. This is the reason further studies are needed, especially for BRCA2 carriers, Dr. Disis added.

Prior to the study, researchers noted the decrease in deaths among women with a history of breast cancer that had their ovaries removed. The results of the study established this association, which is a promising development in this area of oncology.

Women carrying either the BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation have up to 70 percent lifetime risk of developing breast cancer. When diagnosed, they face high risks of developing ovarian cancer and a new primary breast cancer.

Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie notably had a double mastectomy when she found out she carried the BRCA1 mutation two years ago. Last month, she also underwent oophorectomy despite her ovaries being normal, according to reports.

Tagsbreast cancer, oophorectomy, Cancer, Angelina Jolie, Mastectomy