Towards prevention of breast cancer in the Pacific: influence of diet and lifestyle.
Breast cancer is a multifactorial disease which has created a significant health problem worldwide. The literature suggests that there is an increase the prevalence of breast cancer among the Pacific Islanders in the last two decades. Factors which influence breast cancer risk include gender, genetic mutation, diet, parity and endocrine. Nutritional studies and epidemiological surveys show that dietary and lifestyle factors play significant role in breast cancer risk. Breast cancer risk is reduced by regular intake of fruits, vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids-rich diet. Whereas obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption and sedentary lifestyle increase breast cancer risk. Breast feeding practice is protective against breast cancer. Intensive awareness campaigns and public education are necessary to discourage risk behaviour among the Pacific Islanders.
Afolabi
I R
IR
Fiji School of Medicine, PMB Suva. rotimiore@yahoo.com
D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D005367:Fiji / Q000453:epidemiology; D005638:Fruit; D015438:Health Behavior; D006266:Health Education; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D009752:Nutritional Status; D010139:Pacific Islands; D012309:Risk-Taking; D045730:Soy Foods; D014675:Vegetables