30 Aug Dietary Flavonoids May Reduce Risk Of Breast Cancer
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Ying Wang PhD
Epidemiology Post-Doc Fellow
American Cancer Society Inc
Atlanta, GA 30303
Medical Research: What are the main findings of the study?
Dr. Wang: Previous studies suggest that higher intake of fruits and vegetables are associated with lower risk of breast cancer risk, especially estrogen receptor (ER) negative (ER-) tumors that are more aggressive and difficult to treat. We found that postmenopausal women who had higher intake of flavones, a subgroup of flavonoids that are widely distributed in fruits and vegetables, had lower risk of breast cancer. Furthermore, higher intake of flavan-3-ols which is high in non-herbal tea was associated with lower risk of ER- but not ER positive breast cancer.
Medical Research: Were any of the findings unexpected?
Dr. Wang: Our finding of flavones and overall breast cancer risk was consistent with results from a previous meta-analysis. The finding of flavan-3-ols and ER- breast cancer is consistent with other studies that suggest a beneficial role of plant-based diets in ER- breast cancer risk. Our findings are interesting and not entirely unexpected.
Medical Research: What should clinicians and patients take away from your report?
Dr. Wang: Although we found some beneficial associations of dietary flavonoid intake and breast cancer risk, we cannot draw cause-effect conclusions. To reduce the risk of breast cancer, to consume a healthy diet with an emphasis on plant foods and to limit intake of alcohol beverages are the nutrition advice from the American Cancer Society.
Medical Research: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this study?
Dr. Wang: Future pooled analysis of large cohort studies is warranted to replicate the findings.
Citation:
J Nutr. 2014 Aug 20. pii: jn.114.196964. [Epub ahead of print]
Evidence for an Association of Dietary Flavonoid Intake with Breast Cancer Risk by Estrogen Receptor Status Is Limited.
Wang Y1, Gapstur SM1, Gaudet MM1, Peterson JJ2, Dwyer JT3, McCullough ML1
Last Updated on December 21, 2014 by Marie Benz MD FAAD