Respiratory infections like COVID-19 and the flu may increase the risk of dormant breast cancer cells reactivating and spreading in those with a history of the disease.

This is the conclusion of a study based on experiments with mice and observational human health data by researchers at the University of Colorado, the Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center (MECCC) in New York and Utrecht University.

Such an awakening, the team warn, could trigger new metastatic tumors .

"Dormant cancer cells are like the embers left in an abandoned campfire—and respiratory viruses are like a strong wind that reignites the flames," said paper author James DeGregori of the University of Colorado Cancer Center in a statement.

The findings highlight the need for patients to be aware of the ris

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