We know a lot about breast cancer, but not how to prevent or cure it. Here’s some of the latest research into possible risk factors and causes, and scientific breakthroughs that may hopefully lead to a way of eradicating this disease.
- Thinking about your daughter’s diet
Eating a poor diet early in life may increase the chances of developing breast cancer in years to come. A US study of mice showed that the kind of unhealthy diet that can result in children becoming obese can also stimulate early breast growth and lead to abnormal tissues in the breast that may produce breast cancer later on.
- Don’t pig out
Not only can the diet of young girls affect their chances of getting breast cancer, so can what their mums ate while they were pregnant. US researchers say a study involving rats shows that gorging on fatty foods during pregnancy can alter the cells of an unborn baby. They found that the daughters and even granddaughters of female rats that ate a high-fat diet had a significantly higher risk of breast cancer tumours.
- Cut back booze
Even just one glass of wine a day could increase risk. An international team of researchers have compared cancer rates between drinkers and non-drinkers and found that even moderate drinking is associated with a slight increase in the risk of breast cancer.
- Get moving
Breast cancer patients can cut the risk of the disease returning by exercising. An investigation of cancer patients carried out by the Mayo Clinic in the US found women who’d had breast cancer and then exercised regularly reduced the recurrence of the disease by up to 50%.
- Broccoli benefits
Women with breast cancer are getting a medication based on broccoli to see if it suppresses their tumours. Previous studies have suggested a compound released after eating broccoli can boost protective enzymes in breast tissue. Now, a group of British scientists have harnessed this molecule, sulforaphane, and are giving it to patients who have the disease. Experts say eating three to four portions of broccoli a week may help to maintain in the body a healthy balance
of antioxidants that can fight diseases like breast cancer.
- Tea time
A traditional herbal tea may hold the key to fighting breast cancer. The tea, made from a plant known as virgin’s mantle and drunk in desert regions of India, Pakistan and Africa, is thought to contain potent anti-cancer agents that may be able to stop cancer cells from multiplying. Tests have shown extracts from the plant can kill cancerous cells in test tubes, and further research is expected to be carried out to see if it can be developed into a medication.
