Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Major breast cancer organizations, including the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute, are joining forces this month as part of the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month program. The campaign aims to increase awareness and promote research about the disease.

As part of this effort, Natural Standard is working with the Susan G. Komen for the Cure© organization to provide consumer information about integrative therapies for breast cancer.

New evidence from the American Cancer Society suggests that in recent years, fewer Americans are dying from breast cancer. The Breast Cancer Facts & Figures 2009-2010 report suggests that from 1990 to 2005, the number of breast cancer-related deaths has decreased by about 27 percent.

Although fatality rates have decreased among African American, Hispanic and Caucasian women, disparities exist between some races. According to the findings, African American women have a 40 percent higher fatality rate than Caucasian women. The authors suggest that several factors, such as unequal access to medical care and late-stage diagnosis, may contribute to disproportional mortality rates.

Early detection of breast cancer remains essential for improving long-term outcomes. When breast cancer is diagnosed early, the survival rate is about 100 percent, but if diagnosed late, the survival rate is only about 20 percent. Yet, the American Cancer Society estimates that in 2006-2008 only 30 percent of uninsured women had mammograms, compared to 70 percent of insured women.

Aside from regular cancer screenings, diet and lifestyle choices may factor into breast cancer risk and management. It is generally recommended that individuals eat healthy and well-balanced diets, maintain healthy body weight, exercise regularly and drink alcohol in moderation (if at all). Many studies are testing the potential benefits of specific foods and diets on breast cancer.

For instance, a new study suggests that a "prudent diet" rich in fruits, vegetables, fish and whole grains, yet low in sugars and processed meats may help cut the risk of breast cancer in some African American women.

After studying the diets and health of 50,778 African American women from 1995 to 2007, the researchers found that normal-weight women who followed the prudent diet were about one-third less likely to develop breast cancer than those followed a Western-style diet. However, benefits were not observed in overweight women.

The prudent diet was also associated with a 30 percent reduced risk of breast cancer among premenopausal women compared to post-menopausal women.

Another recent study found that a high-fiber diet may also decrease the risk of breast cancer.

The researchers analyzed data from 185,598 post-menopausal women who participated in the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study. Hormone receptor status, which indicates whether estrogen (ER) and/or progesterone (PR) fuel the growth of the tumor, was available for 2,391 patients.

After an average follow-up period of seven years, the researchers found that women who ate the most fiber were 13 percent less likely to develop breast cancer than those who ate the least amount. The association was stronger among those with negative ER/PR tumors compared to those with positive ER/PR tumors.

However, more studies are needed to fully understand the potential relationship between fiber intake and breast cancer risk.

Although some diets may be beneficial for breast cancer, some foods, herbs and supplements may increase the risk of the disease or interact with cancer treatment. For instance, soy red clover and black cohosh contain phytoestrogens, which act similarly to estrogen. For more information about the safety of integrative therapies, please visit Natural Standard's Foods, Herbs & Supplements and Health & Wellness databases.

To screen for potential interactions with other therapies, including chemotherapy, please visit Natural Standard's Interactions Checker.

For more information about breast cancer, please visit Natural Standard's Medical Conditions database.

Comments

[wieder]

I think there are lots of women who are suffering from this, but they can't explore it. More studies are needed to fully understand the potential relationship between fiber intake and breast cancer risk.

[Dan]

It has been a long time since researchers have shown that disparities do exist between races when it comes to early diagnosis and breast cancer fatality rates. Now what I’m surprised about is that these disparities continue to exist even though thousands of minority’s women have died. What else has to happen before this issue is seen as a healthcare issue that needs to be addressed?

[Lucie]

Another good reason for women to eat their fruits and veggies. It’s known that fruits and vegetables can help a person maintain a normal body weight, but according to this study, it can also reduce a woman’s likelihood of developing breast cancer. I think those are good reasons for which you should encourage yourself (if you’re a woman), your female friends, your mother, your grandmother, your aunt, your sister, your wives to adopt and maintain a good eating habit for the rest of their lives.

[Melissa]

Another dietary aspect that may play a role in breast cancer development and/or prognosis is vitamin D. Preliminary results indicate that women with “deficient” or “insufficient” blood vitamin D levels were at greater risks for poor outcomes after being diagnosed with breast cancer. However, more studies need to be done to elucidate the exact relationship between vitamin D and breast cancer. For now, women should strive to consume the following daily doses put forth by the Institute of Medicine: 200 IU for women ≤ 50 years old, 400 IU for women 51-70 and 600 for women IU ≥ 71.

Vitamin D supplementation may be particularly important if one is not routinely exposed to sunlight. Some vitamin D supplement manufacturers are already capitalizing on the link between breast cancer and vitamin D deficiency. On the bottle of the generic women’s multivitamin that I take it states, “increased calcium and vitamin D for bone and breast health.” Whether randomized controlled trials have been conducted or not, the idea is already reaching the consumer.

American Cancer Society. “Study Sees Link Between Vitamin D, Breast Cancer Prognosis”. http://www.cancer.org/docroot/NWS/content/NWS_1_1x_Study_Sees_Link_Between_Vitamin_D_Breast_Cancer_Prognosis.asp 16 May 2008.

[Tasha]

I am really glad to know about the Interactions Checker on Natural Standard's Web site, and I'm going to forward this immediately to a good friend who is now undergoing chemo for breast cancer. There is such a ton of information on the web, and from her perspective, I understand it is very hard to tell what is reliable and what isn't. My friend wants to try all sort of natural and alternative treatments in addition to the traditional ones, and it's obviously important to know about these precautions. Thank you!

[Michael]

It is unfortunate that there is not already enough motivation to change the American diet, given the rapidly increasing rates of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Recent information linking diet to the development of cancer is another reason to add to the list. There is no doubt that many of our most common health problems in this country come from what we eat. Reevaluating our fruit, vegetable, fiber, and fish intake is something that everyone should be doing. Knowing how these health issues are linked to diet and that our diet is our choice, choosing to make the right decisions can prevent us from years of health battles.

[mya]

Every day, I learn of someone who has been newly diagnosed with breast cancer. However, while it has become more and more prevalent, the amount of research regarding breast cancer is tremendous and fortunately becoming easier to diagnose and treat.
I just wanted to share a link from the National Cancer Institute with our readers: http://www.cancer.gov/clinicaltrials/results/breast?keyword=any+breast&page=1, where patients and their families can go to see the latest results from clinical trials from not only breast cancer, but also on prostate and lung cancers too. I encourage the public to just peruse the National Cancer Institute Web site and consider it a reliable source, as it gives plenty of valuable information.

[CK]

I have a good friend who lost his mother to breast cancer, so although this topic is not first-degree for me, I understand how important breast cancer awareness has become. Every year, my friend goes on Komen's 3-Day event, where people walk about 60 miles in three days. This event is a great fundraising opportunity. The participants bond and share memories and experiences. It sounds like an amazing time.

I think they generated over $4 million dollars this past year on the walk, so it is a truly remarkable experience. I hope to be able to participate in this event in the near future to support my friend and others for this great cause. It is sad that socioeconomic status still plays an influential role in this fight.

[Robin]

Even though researchers must conduct more studies to clarify the relationship between breast cancer and fiber, a diet rich in fiber is part of an overall healthy lifestyle. Fiber is beneficial for the GI tract, especially in the setting of comorbidities such as irritable bowel syndrome. Fiber can also support weight loss efforts by keeping you full for a longer period of time after eating. I know that if I don't eat a fiber-rich breakfast, then there's no way I'll be able to make it to lunch time without eating in between.

[RU]

I’m not sure if I am more cognizant of breast cancer awareness this month, or the breast cancer awareness movement is really doing a great job, because I have seen the pink ribbons, or the color pink represented in many aspects of my daily routine. Major sporting events, such as baseball and football, have prominently displayed breast cancer awareness, with ball players using pink bats and pink sweatbands. The other weekend, football players were wearing pink receivers' gloves and pink cleats. It was pretty interesting to see the level of support from professional sports.

[Phil]

Many of the commentators have hit on the importance of diet in preventing breast cancer, as well as other cancers and diseases, but a point in this article that seems just as important is increasing screening opportunities and access to care. The same population that is likely to consume a poor diet is the same population that is not likely to get proper medical care. Maybe more of the millions of dollars raised should go toward offering breast cancer screenings in underserved areas.

[Emma]

In this era, this is one of our biggest health problems, so preventing this disease is really most important.

[Carol]

Phil, I agree with you that more needs to be done in the underserved community. Some years ago there used to be a program funded by the state of Massachusetts. If I’m not mistaken, it was called the Women’s Health Initiative. I don’t know if it still exists, but the program’s main focus was to provide a yearly mammogram, free of charge, to every women over the age of 50. The program subcontracted with community-based organizations to be able to reach the communities themselves. I don’t know how viable the program is right now or to what extent the program reached those who would benefited the most.

[Alex]

I think the reason why you see pink gloves and pink bats is because so many people have either directly or indirectly been affected by this illness. Some may be a public figure, while others may not be, but the devastation is the same no matter who you are. For some, the battle is public, as is the case of Good Morning America co-host Robin. When she was diagnosed with breast cancer, she announced it on the show. As she was going through chemo and lost her hair, she shared her battle with the viewers. What I thought was incredible was that viewers would send her well wishes from all over the country, and she was grateful for them. I thought she was very brave to share her good and bad days with everyone. Even if cancer has not touched you personally, you couldn’t help placing yourself in her shoes or asking yourself what you would have done if it was you.

[Sweetbanana]

With the mention of phytoestrogens, exposure to plastics and plastic products (plastic bottled drugs, water, foods e.t.c.) should also be limited and ultimately avoided. Liver-enhancing foods and herbs in addition to fibers also help liver and pancreas function; two organs that are imperiled during cancer.

[jack]

Sports teams are wearing them. You find them on granola bar boxes. Even the Sears Tower and John Hancock building in Chicago are painted pink. The pink ribbons have become synonymous with a national effort to raise breast cancer awareness. The depth of the energy by the public resonates everywhere you go; however, I have to agree with some of the previous bloggers. What about those that do not have adequate access to healthcare? What about our mothers, sisters, grandmothers, daughters in developing countries? When will it be the right time to reach out to other countries and make the impact that has been made in the United States? The wave of breast cancer awareness has been so positive here that I can’t wait to see the impact it will have globally.

[Harold]

There are so many ways to get involved and support the efforts of Breast Cancer Awareness initiatives this month. The National Breast Cancer Awareness Month Web site has a great list of races and other events going on throughout the country. http://www.nbcam.org/newsroom_events.cfm

[BP]

The author quotes some statistics showing that African American women have a 40 percent higher fatality rate than Caucasian women. While some suggested factors that may contribute to the disproportional mortality rates include unequal access to medical care and late-stage diagnosis, I wonder how much of this is true or simply genetics? I tend to favor the argument that the socioeconomic status is a bigger factor in the mortality rates than there being a clear genetic predisposition. Have there been any studies regarding this? Do African American women really have a genetic disadvantage that causes them to contract breast cancer at such an alarming rate compared to other races? Or is it because they may have socioeconomic disadvantages and are unable to get early diagnoses?

[jeanine]

All of these breast cancer awareness groups are doing tremendous work in promoting response to this condition. Last year, I attended a local breakfast diner to raise funds for a breast cancer walk, and seeing women who had gone through and were currently undergoing chemotherapy regimens was such a moving experience. Early prevention and awareness can do so much for every woman. Education and more studies on food supplements, lifestyle modifications and prevention methods would be so helpful for younger women like myself.

[karina gordin]

Reading the breast cancer awareness month article on Natural Standard Web site brought to mind an article I recently read discussing alcohol consumption and breast cancer risk, addressed in a prospective cohort "The Women's Health Study." Both articles support the fact that moderate alcohol consumption increases breast cancer risk.

A variety of epidemiologic studies have consistently observed a direct association between the occurrence of breast cancer, and moderate consumption of beer, wine and liquor separately. The strong data speculate that alcohol consumption might increase risk of breast cancer at least in part through its effect on estrogen and progesterone, which in turn effects cell growth and differentiation, mediated through steroid hormone receptors.

Much like the Natural Standard's article stated, disparities still exist between the races in terms of cancer risk and survival. The "Women's Health Study" stratified women by categories of menopausal status, body mass index, post-menopausal hormone use, family history of breast cancer, history of benign breast disease, total folate intake and race. I would like to make a note that several studies have found that higher folate intake reduces the excess risk of breast cancer due to alcohol consumption.

Ultimately, a higher alcohol consumption was associated with a modest increase in breast cancer risk; specifically, a daily consumption of 10 g/day of alcohol (about 0.75-1 drink) was significantly associated with a 9 percent increase in risk of invasive breast cancer, and the risk increased with increasing categories of alcohol; consumption of greater or equal to 30 g/day of alcohol was significantly associated with a 43 percent increase in risk.

This begs the question whether the African American women (discussed in the Natural Standard article as having a 40 percent higher fatality rate than Caucasian women due to breast cancer) drink more alcohol; although alcohol is a single component of breast cancer risk.

REFERENCE: "Alcohol Consumption and Breast Cancer Risk in the Women's Health Study; Shumin M. Zhang, l-Min Lee, JoAnn E Manson, Nancy R. Cook, Walter C. Willett, and Julie E. Buring. American Journal of Epidemiology, May 27th, 2006

[Maria]

I believe the point concerning the use of supplements (such as soy and black cohosh) in breast cancer patients is significant. These supplements contain phytoestrogens, which may act similarly to estrogen in the body. The use of black cohosh could be a good thing to mention to women who are of menopausal age because it is often used to decrease menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes, mood disturbances, diaphoresis, palpitations and vaginal dryness. Women who have estrogen-receptor positive breast cancer may want to talk to their doctors before starting black cohosh due to its potential to worsen the disease.

[advocate]

Last year, I had the opportunity to take part in the Susan G. Komen Walk for the Cure in Detroit, Michigan. There, I met a lady who was newly diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer and whose mother and two sisters were also diagnosed with breast cancer. I believe something has to be said for the strength of this woman and her family when faced with an adversity such as cancer. She told me, “I have two options: 1) I can pity myself and make everyone else around me miserable or 2) I can face it, accept it, and run with it.” She attributed much of her strength to her support system, which included her husband, three kids, her siblings, parents and friends. Her perspective was so simple and so true — just wanted to share it with other readers!

[Megan]

While the study from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition referenced in this blog examined the effect of a “prudent diet” on breast cancer in African American women, that sort of diet makes good sense for just about anybody trying to stay healthy. Its benefits stretch beyond cancer prevention and pertain to a wider population than just African American women. Sometimes people can get caught up in the minutiae of scientific theory regarding treatments and lose sight of the cornerstones of healthy living. You don’t need a randomized control trial to know that you should follow these diet guidelines as opposed to indulging in fast food and candy. If your nutritional foundation is comprised of junk food, merely adding healthy supplements won’t make up for its complete lack of substance.

[Geraldine]

I would agree with advocate; there is something remarkable about the good majority of women when they’re diagnosed with breast cancer. Their attitude towards themselves, their families and life in general change for the better. They don’t sit around feeling sorry for themselves. Instead they turn around and provide the strength to those around them. It’s remarkable, and I don’t know how they do it. To me, these are the people you should look up to as role models.

[ML]

After reading about all these stories and seeing Breast Cancer Awareness month on TV, I feel compelled to participate in this great cause. It seems like the Susan G. Komen Walk is nothing but a great success every time it is held. From personal accounts to what I’ve read on the blog, it seems like everyone experiences something special at this event and it’s inspiring me to participate in one of these walks in the near future.

[Etta]

My mother-in-law was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005, and she was overwhelmed. She used dietary changes as a distraction from her treatments. Fortunately, her husband was very supportive and joined her in her efforts. Now she is cancer free, and they both continue to live healthier lifestyles after learning new habits.

[CD]

Since October is national breast cancer awareness month, it is great to see the positive prognoses that many patients with breast cancer get now. Treatment has come a long way for this disease, and it brings hope that perhaps we will one day see this success in treatment with other forms of cancer, especially more deadlier ones, such as pancreatic cancer.

I also can't help but notice that once again, the importance of diet is pointed out as a major way to possibly stay disease free! It is so easy to grab an apple or banana as a quick snack instead of the junk offered on the shelves, but people today just unfortunately don't do this. With everyone's busy lifestyles, I can understand this; but when you put it into perspective with your own health, a little prep work for homemade foods in the long run is much better than a cancer diagnosis.

Anyways, kudos to the success of breast cancer in this country, and let's hope to see success, if not miraculously - cures, for all types of other cancers.

[Jeni]

I am impressed with the success of national breast cancer awareness month. It is great to see so many people supporting the cause. Even professional sports teams are sporting the pink colors to show their support. Thumbs up everyone!

[Helen]

Although I think more studies are needed to show the correlation between breast cancer and high-fiber diet, it may play a role in the disease. In the 1800s, people were dying from infectious diseases, but nowadays, people are more likely to die from chronic diseases than from an infection. I wonder if it has anything to do with today’s diet, which is high in fat and low in fiber.

[SW]

I agree with BP. It’s very interesting to see a 40% difference in mortality rate between African American women and Caucasian women. This is a huge difference and I wonder, like BP said, if there is a genetic reason behind it or if it really just has to do with access to healthcare. It would be interesting to see if other countries, which may have better healthcare systems than the United States, have the same results.

[S]

I find it interesting that fiber intake correlates with the prevalence of breast cancer in women. As the change of survival is so much higher in cases of early detection, a stronger emphasis must be placed on the importance of yearly screening, and well as self-examinations. I am including a link here to an article about new advances in mammography, which will hopefully lead to more women being screened. http://dailygleaner.canadaeast.com/cityregion/article/839781

[monica]

Although breast cancer seems to be in the media frequently and early screening in breast cancer can decrease mortality greatly, women still aren’t getting screened consistently. There are also many studies out there trying to determine why some women are more prone to breast cancer than others and ways that women can decrease are chances of breast cancer, such as the new study that was mentioned stating how a “prudent diet” rich in fruits, vegetables, etc. could help reduce breast cancer in African American women.

However, I think these studies carry a lot of confounding factors because women who are able to stick to healthy diets are usually able to make healthier lifestyle choices overall. In addition, we all know that eating healthily, exercising, not smoking, etc. is good for us, but unfortunately, that doesn’t always make us more inclined to change our lifestyle choices.

[Frieda]

The health disparity discussed here in the comments will always be around. A good way to combat this problem, especially in breast cancer, is to donate time and energy to clinics for underserved populations. Very few practitioners are able to work full time for these efforts, but if we all pitch in a few hours a week, it can make a difference.

[GB]

CD brings up an excellent point about a healthy diet in the prevention of diseases, not only breast cancer, but many diseases. The more we learn about a healthy lifestyle, the more we realize how much of our own fate we hold in our hands. Many of the current health issues in this country, such as obesity, hypertension and hypercholesterolemia, all stem from our own doing. Very rarely are people born obese, hypertensive and hypercholesterolemic. It is either the way we are brought up or how we choose to lead our lives that leads to these disease states. If we just took some time to become educated in eating healthily and living healthy lifestyles, I think many of these ailments can be alleviated. Perhaps it takes something as drastic as either getting breast cancer or knowing someone who has breast cancer to really appreciate what living healthy can do for you.

[Grace]

Breast cancer awareness is so important. Knowing how to detect and screen for breast cancer in its early stages can really save lives. My mother lost her battle with breast cancer after 20 years of fighting. I can't help but wonder what would have happened had they caught it earlier.

[SS]

In regard to the study that found that a 'prudent diet' would lower the risk of breast cancer in some African American women, I wonder if this has been studied in a broader population of women. If so, this diet should be encouraged for all women, especially in those with a higher risk of breast cancer, such as those with a family history.

[SK]

Increasing awareness of the importance of yearly screening of breast cancer is extremely important. It is great that articles like this are helping to promote regular screening and explaining the benefits that go along with this proactive approach.

[DC]

The style of diets is always influenced by cultural input. I was curious about breast cancer rates between different races and ethnic groups, so I looked it up. According to cancer.gov, incidence rates from the highest to the lowest are: Caucasian (132) > African American (118) > Hispanic, Asian (89) > American Indian, Alaska native (69.8) per 100,000 women. Eating healthfully is becoming more necessary for our generation to survive all these various medical conditions. Awareness is the beginning.

[DF]

Another great aspect of the Susan G. Komen walks and races is the message they convey about the importance of physical activity. An October 2009 study by TM Peters found that postmenopausal women who engaged in more than seven hours per week of moderate-to-vigorous exercise for the past 10 years were less likely to develop breast cancer in comparison to more sedentary women.

[cartucho r4i]

As a breast cancer survivor, I was very thankful for the insurance coverage I had during my treatment. I am aware that I did have insurance, which not everyone does. If I had changed jobs, I would probably have had a coverage issue, but I think there can be regulations to handle that problem.

Let's regulate the insurance companies so they serve us better without driving a stake through their hearts.