As studies have generated inconsistent results regarding the potential relationship between fibre intake and breast cancer, Maryam Farvid, PhD, of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, led a search for all relevant prospective studies published on this subject through July 2019.
When the investigators pooled data from the 20 observational studies -17 cohort trials, 2 nested case‐control trials, and 1 clinical trial - results suggested that individuals with the highest consumption of fibre had an eight percent lower risk of breast cancer.
Soluble fibre was associated with lower risks of breast cancer and higher total fibre intake was associated with a lower risk in both premenopausal and postmenopausal women.
The authors note that these findings do not demonstrate that dietary fibre directly reduces breast cancer risk and a randomised clinical trial is needed to test such cause and effect.
Dr. Farvid said: "Our study contributes to the evidence that lifestyle factors, such as modifiable dietary practices, may affect breast cancer risk.
"Our findings provide research evidence supporting the American Cancer Society dietary guidelines, emphasising the importance of a diet rich in fibre, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains."
Source: CANCER, ACS
"Fiber consumption and breast cancer incidence: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective studies."
Farvid. M. S., et al