[Nonhormonal prevention of breast cancer].
BACKGROUND
Despite the use of currently available drug therapies, the life expectancy of patients with metastasized breast cancer can still only be extended by about 14 to 16 months in comparison to a completely untreated patient population. In light of these figures, and the associated economic costs, all possible means to reduce the incidence of the disease are of great potential importance and must be examined seriously.


CONCLUSIONS
Increased consumption of alcohol is a risk factor for breast cancer. Increased intake of phytoestrogens, dietary fiber, and beta-carotene as well as regular physical activity and normal body weight lower the risk of breast cancer. The increased risk of breast cancer associated with alcohol consumption can be reduced by adequate intake of folate. The significance of retinoids is at present ambiguous.


CONCLUSIONS
Effective preventive measures, along with adequate early detection schemes, are the best means of reducing mortality due to breast cancer. Both folate and retinoids deserve to be subjected to further studies. It would also be desirable to supplement currently ongoing adjuvant therapy trials with studies examining the use of folate versus placebo.
Jonat
W
W
Klinik für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe, Universitätsklinikum Kiel. jonat@email.uni-kiel.de
D016588:Anticarcinogenic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000517:prevention & control*; D015331:Cohort Studies; D004032:Diet; D004043:Dietary Fiber / Q000008:administration & dosage; D004968:Estrogens, Non-Steroidal / Q000008:administration & dosage; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D005492:Folic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage; D006801:Humans; D007529:Isoflavones; D048789:Phytoestrogens; D028321:Plant Preparations; D011322:Primary Prevention; D012307:Risk Factors; D013695:Temperance; D019207:beta Carotene / Q000008:administration & dosage
D016588:Anticarcinogenic Agents; D004043:Dietary Fiber; D004968:Estrogens, Non-Steroidal; D007529:Isoflavones; D048789:Phytoestrogens; D028321:Plant Preparations; D019207:beta Carotene; D005492:Folic Acid