Minimizing Breast Cancer Risk with Diet and Exercise

• Published in: Current breast cancer reports 2024-03, Vol.16 (1), p.45-52
• Main Authors: Maramara, Taylor, Matos, Monique Couto, Ardila, Sara, Phantana-angkool, April, Henry, Danielle
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Internal Medicine; Medicine; Medicine & Public Health; Oncology; Surgical Oncology; Topical Collection on High Risk Lesions and Breast Cancer Prevention
• ISSN: 1943-4588; 1943-4596
• DOI: 10.1007/s12609-024-00524-7

Purpose of Review This review critically evaluates recent literature to empower clinicians with evidence-based recommendations on the relationship between diet, exercise, and breast cancer risk for breast cancer prevention and survivors . Recent Findings Low-fat, high-vegetable, and fruit diet may not significantly reduce breast cancer risk but linked to lower breast cancer mortality. Plant-based diets show an inverse association with breast cancer diagnosis. Alcohol consumption increases breast cancer risk. High-intensity exercise demonstrates a modest protective effect. Combined, a healthy diet and exercise significantly reduce body weight, fat, and visceral adipose in breast cancer survivors. Interventions for minority women remain underrepresented, emphasizing the need for tailored programs to address disparities. Summary Diet and exercise remain critical aspects of modifiable risk in breast cancer prevention and management. Low-fat, high-fruit, and vegetable diets contribute to overall health and decrease post-diagnosis mortality. Moderate to high-intensity exercise shows a modest effect against breast cancer risk.