New Study Finds Lack of Knowledge Among Women On Dietary Factors & Breast Cancer Prevention—Something ‘Veep’ Star Julia Louis-Dreyfus Understands All To Well

When asked about what specific foods have the ability to reduce breast cancer risk, only 17 percent of the study’s participants, who took part in a 15-minute online survey, had knowledge that soy products reduce breast cancer risk. It may be concerning to know that 16 percent of participants wrongly thought soy raises breast cancer risk.

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“It’s clear that millions of women have yet to hear the lifesaving message that what they eat and drink strongly influences their chances of developing breast cancer,” Dr. Kristi Funk, a breast cancer surgeon and leading prevention expert in Los Angeles, said in a statement.

“Science shows nearly 50 percent of cases are preventable through diet and lifestyle, at least in theory, and in my opinion, 80 to 90 percent of cases could be avoided.”

When compared to a 1995 telephone surgery, consisting of only 510 women, no increase in breast cancer risk awareness was shown in recent decades.

The research authors’ key findings are listed below:

• A significant number of women remember one step to reduce breast cancer risk and 28 percent “mentioned diet as a means of reduction.” However, the study notes that the number of women who cited diet in this study, when compared to a 1995 study, was only five percent higher.
• Similar to the 1995 study, women with less knowledge of overall preventative habits, were found to be younger women, women with a lower household income, and women with lower educational achievements [those who have a college degree or higher statistically have more understanding of breast cancer risk].
• Women who obtained information from a health care professional are more likely to understand what habits are connected to breast cancer risk reduction.
• Most women across demographics were unaware of the soy benefits when it comes to breast cancer risk. “Those who are aware of a risk are split between soy increasing or decreasing the risk of breast cancer,” the study authors explain.

Neal Barnard, MD, president of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, also stated in a press release on study, “Public education programs on breast cancer have focused on mammograms, which play a vital role, but are not enough.

“It is essential to empower people with steps they can take to protect themselves, and a healthy diet is at the top of the list.”

The study also explains, “81 percent of women can name at least one step to reduce their risk of breast cancer. However, over half still mentioned screening methods as opposed to preventative methods.”

Major Reduction in Cancer Risk by Following Old Standbys Diet and Exercise

Women who took part in the recent study were asked , “What steps, if any, are you aware of that women can take to lower their chances of developing breast cancer?”

Fifty-six percent of women chose “self exams/doctor checkups/mammograms,” 28 percent picked “diet,” 14 percent said “avoid carcinogens (smoking, alcohol), another 14 percent said “exercise,” four percent said “weight,” three percent chose “healthy lifestyle,” and two percent picked, “avoid hormones (HRT, birth control, etc.).

However, a whopping 19 percent chose the answer “don’t know/nothing,” and 11 percent chose “other,” which consists of one percent of the following: leading a healthy lifestyle, avoiding hormones, avoiding damaging breasts, getting sleep, reducing stress, reducing harmful ingredients/chemicals, breastfeeding/having children, hydrating, wearing sun protection, taking medication.

The press release on the study explains, “When asked about specific categories that may increase the risk of developing cancer, women were most likely to cite being overweight and high consumption of processed meats. But just 24 percent said they are aware that high consumption of dairy products increases the risk.

“Research funded by the National Cancer Institute, the National Institutes of Health, and the World Cancer Research Fund, found that women who consumed 1/4 to 1/3 cup of cow’s milk per day had a 30 percent increased chance of developing breast cancer. One cup per day increased the risk by 50 percent, and 2 to 3 cups were associated with an 80% increased chance of developing breast cancer.”

The press release also notes that a national nonprofit health advocacy group known as The Physicians Committee advises “a four-pronged approach to preventing breast cancer: Eat a whole food, plant-based diet, exercise regularly, limit alcohol and maintain a healthy weight.”

Dig This: The Obstacles to Eating Healthy, and What You Can Do About 

Lastly, Stephanie McBurnett, a registered dietitian with the Physicians Committee, said in a statement, “Research shows that eating a low-fat plant-based diet rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, and beans not only helps lower breast cancer risk.

“It’s also beneficial for breast cancer survivors.”

RELATED: Dramatic Life Event, Life Changes: Actress Julia Louis-Dreyfus Says Breast Cancer Altered The Way She Eats & Exercises

Why Julia Louis-Dreyfus Altered Her Diet After Cancer

Comedian Julia Louis-Dreyfus, 63, previously admitted to always making it a point to eat healthy and staying active, however, her stage 2 breast cancer diagnosis ultimately motivated her to be “even more” health-conscious.

The award-winning actress received her cancer diagnosis back in 2017. After undergoing chemotherapy and a double mastectomy, Louis-Dreyfus was dubbed “cancer-free” the following year.

Following her cancer battle, Louis-Dreyfus, a mom of two, spoke with Woman’s World about how the disease inspired her to be more healthier than ever, explaining, “I’ve always been a healthy eater and an exerciser, but now I’m even more so.

“I’m kind of hyper-vigilant about it; getting a certain amount of exercise in for certain a week and trying to live as clean a diet as I possibly can. I mean, you know, within moderation!”

Louis-Dreyfus said she now focuses her diet on lean proteins and lean vegetables.

Back in 2008, she opened up to Harper’s Bazaar about her healthy way of living and “sensible indulgence.”

She explained, “For lunch, I’m a big fan of chicken and turkey. I like a really good turkey sandwich. I find that it does the trick, makes me feel satisfied. I love salads, too, but I usually have a sandwich. And I’m a big fan of those baked Ruffles potato chips.”

WATCH: Maintain a Good Diet.

Louis-Dreyfus also makes it a point to eat breakfast, often putting avocado on wheat toast or eating egg whites in the morning.

As for “dieting,” Louis-Dreyfus admits being strict with her food intake doesn’t make her happy. “I tried one of those things where they deliver meals to your house, which lasted 24 hours. I felt like it was a prison sentence, eating that crap,” she said. “I like my freedom. The minute I feel deprived, that’s when I get into trouble.”

RELATED: ‘Julia Louis-Dreyfus Says She Was ‘Terrified’ When She Learned She Had Breast Cancer, but Grateful for Family To Help Her Through It

She noted how she adds in an additional hour of Pilates or going on hiking trails for an hour, about four times week.

“There’s nothing that makes me happier. And I really like to eat, so it’s the only thing that keeps me from being a huge fatty pants,” she added.

Role of Lifestyle in Cancer Risk

When it comes to trying to prevent a cancer diagnosis or recurrence, there are a few factors to consider. Making sure we are healthy is important for our everyday lives, and that means prioritizing a healthy diet and consistently being active.

Although there’s been no scientific evidence to prove a certain diet or amount of exercise causes or prevents cancer, there is a definite link. For example, among the women who exercised regularly, their risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer dropped by 12%.

As for diet, it’s recommended to practice moderation as much as possible. Cancer risk can be linked to consuming high amounts of sugar, carbs, and overcooked processed meats. That’s why it’s important to balance your cravings with nutritious foods such as dark green, red and orange vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. By making sure you eat a balanced diet, this can decrease inflammation which is often associated with cancer risk.

RELATED: The ‘Pandemic Lifestyle’ of Little Exercise, High Carbs, & Lots of Drinking Puts Us At Extra Risk of Cancer; Here Are Ways To Check Yourself

“Things that we know are not good for us: high carbs, high meat, low fiber, high sugar, smoking, [and] drinking excessively, they all are bad for our health and increase our risk of cancer. Exercise decreases the risk of cancer,” Dr. Yeo said.

The Role of Diet and Exercise in Cancer Risk

In addition to affecting your cancer risk, lifestyle can play an important role in going through active cancer treatment as well. While it’s important to not lose weight while going through certain treatments such as chemotherapy, a healthy diet can strengthen your immune system which can help you push through treatment. Additionally, doing light exercises such as yoga can also lend itself as a stress reliever, which is helpful for one’s emotional health.

“Diet, exercise, and stress control are extremely important when going through both cancer therapy, as well as once you’re done treating your cancer and trying to get back to the rest of your life,” Dr. Sairah Ahmed, a medical oncologist at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, previously told SurvivorNet.

“You want to have a moderate diet where you’re including lots of fruits and vegetables, but you’re still eating fat and protein. You want to maintain physical exercise. The more physically fit you are going through your cancer treatment, the less side effects you’ll have and the faster you’ll get back to your normal quality of life.”

Your Simple Stay-Healthy Guide

Bottom line, working out and being nutritious doesn’t need to be difficult. In order to stay healthy, taking a little time out of your day can make a huge difference. Here are a few tips to be proactive:

• Take a little time to work out. This could be a walk around the block or light yoga class.
• Incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet.
• Cut down on alcohol intake. Moderation is key.
• Try substituting foods with sugar and carbs with healthier alternatives.
• Get up and move a few times a day.

Contributing: SurvivorNet Staff

Learn more about SurvivorNet's rigorous medical review process.

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