Breast Cancer

Also known asBreast Cancer Prevention · Cancer of the Breast · Breast Lump · 乳腺癌 · 乳癌 · Kanser Payudara

What it is

Breast cancer starts in the cells of the breast and is the most common cancer in women worldwide, though men can get it too. Risk rises with age and with a family history or inherited gene changes (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2), early periods, late menopause, not having children, and hormone treatments.

How food and lifestyle can help

The lifestyle factors with the clearest evidence are alcohol (even small amounts raise risk), being overweight after the menopause, and inactivity. Regular exercise and breastfeeding lower risk. Screening mammograms detect cancers early and reduce deaths.

Foods and nutrients to focus on

1. A healthy weight, and regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes a week).
2. Vegetables, fruit, whole grains and beans.
3. Moderate amounts of traditional soya foods such as tofu, tempeh and soy milk, which are safe and may be linked with lower risk in Asian women.
4. Fish, poultry and nuts in place of red and processed meat.

Foods and drinks to limit

1. Alcohol: the less the better.
2. Sugary drinks and ultra-processed foods that add excess weight.
3. High-dose supplements, which do not reduce risk.

Good to know

1. Take up breast screening when invited, and know how your breasts normally look and feel.
2. Eating soya foods after a breast cancer diagnosis is considered safe; ask your cancer team about supplements and soya extracts.
3. Hormone therapy, family history and genes matter alongside diet.

When to see a doctor

1. A new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit, a change in the size, shape or skin of the breast, nipple changes or discharge.
2. You are due screening, or have a strong family history: ask about genetic counselling.
3. You are being treated for cancer: ask your oncology dietitian before changing your diet.

This page is general information, not medical advice. If you have a medical condition or take medicines, check changes to your diet with your doctor or a registered dietitian.

NHS — Breast cancer, used for the main facts: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/breast-cancer/