Impact of Yogurt Consumption on Breast Cancer Risk

Study Overview

Researchers at Lancaster University have conducted a study to explore the potential link between yogurt consumption and a reduced risk of breast cancer. In the United States, breast cancer remains the most prevalent cancer among women, with a death rate of 20 per 100,000 women in 2016, totaling over 41,000 fatalities. Although the mortality rate has declined since 1999, understanding the factors contributing to breast cancer remains crucial.

Age and Inflammation as Risk Factors

The risk of developing cancer increases with age, and researchers have identified inflammation as a possible contributing factor. In younger individuals, cellular repair processes operate efficiently, but this ability diminishes in later life, potentially resulting in the formation of cancerous tumors. Bacterial cells are one source of inflammation, producing toxins that can trigger inflammatory responses.

Research Hypothesis

The researchers from Lancaster University hypothesized that bacterial-induced inflammation might contribute to breast cancer, while regular consumption of yogurt could mitigate this risk. Their findings were published in the journal Medical Hypothesis.

The Role of Bacteria in Breast Milk

Human breast milk is not sterile and contains various beneficial bacteria that help infants’ immune systems develop. These bacteria contribute to a symbiotic microbial flora in the gastrointestinal tract of infants. Additionally, breastfeeding has protective benefits for mothers, reducing their risk of developing breast cancer, likely due to the presence of lactose-fermenting bacteria.

Analysis of Dairy Intake

The research team reviewed two meta-analyses that established a connection between dairy consumption and breast cancer risk. Both analyses indicated that higher consumption of dairy products, including milk, yogurt, and cheese, correlates with a reduced risk of developing breast cancer.

Expert Insights

In a press release, co-author Dr. Rachael Rigby noted, “The stem cells which divide to replenish the lining of the breast ducts are influenced by the microflora, and certain components of the microflora have been shown in other organs, such as the colon and stomach, to increase the risk of cancer development. Therefore, a similar scenario is likely to be occurring in the breast, whereby resident microflora impact on stem cell division and influence cancer risk.”

Conclusions and Recommendations

While the researchers have not fully validated their hypothesis, they suggest a simple and affordable preventive measure: women should consider consuming natural yogurt daily. The study implies that incorporating yogurt into the diet may help lower the risk of breast cancer in women.

Written by Rebecca K. Blankenship, B.Sc.

References

Breast Cancer Statistics | CDC. Cdc.gov. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/statistics/index.htm. Published 2020. Accessed January 25, 2020.
Marwaha A, Morris J, Rigby R. Hypothesis: Bacterial induced inflammation disrupts the orderly progression of the stem cell hierarchy and has a role in the pathogenesis of breast cancer. Med Hypotheses. 2020;136:109530. doi:10.1016/j.mehy.2019.109530.
Image by Antonio Jose Cespedes from Pixabay.