New Breast Cancer Test May Predict a Relapse, A Healthy Diet May Help Cut the Risk

According to a study published in the journal Clinical Oncology, a new test called Oncotype DX can help analyse the cancerous tumour removed during the surgery to predict the likelihood of a cancer relapse. The test provides a score between 1 and 100 to exhibit the likelihood of cancer to return. Experts suggest the test as a pivotal tool in ascertaining risk of a cancer relapse therefore preventing many women from undergoing unnecessary chemotherapy.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancer types in women. Some of the factors leading to breast cancer development include obesity, familial cancer history, sedentary lifestyle, early menarche, late child birth or no child birth among others. Breastfeeding is considered one as of the ways to avoid breast cancer.

Diet and breast cancer risk

According to Cancer Research UK, adopting minor tweaks in diet may prevent up to 9 out of every 100 cancer cases. Diets high in saturated fats have been linked to triggering risk of developing breast cancer in menopausal, post-menopausal women. "People who eat foods containing fish oils (marine omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids) seem to have a lower breast cancer risk than people who only eat small amounts," as mentioned on Cancer Research UK official website.

Isoflavones (found in items like beans, peas and soy) and lignans (present in foods like fresh fruits and veggies, grains, tea and coffee) have been linked to preventing risk of developing breast cancer. Replace animal fats in your diet with polyunsaturated fats and monounsaturated fats. Low-fat dairy, fermented foods, cereals, whole grains, fresh fruits and veggies, berries, nuts and seeds, legumes among others must be a part of your daily diet. Regular exercising is also known to stave off risk of developing breast cancer. Monitor your alcohol intake and quit smoking. Maintain your weight, keep stress at bay and get proper sleep.