Soy Consumption among Women at Risk for Breast Cancer

Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Pennsylvania studied the eating patterns of more than 450 women who are at increased risk of breast cancer to quantify and qualify use of soy products in the women's diets. Research is attempting to find whether soy has a role in the prevention or treatment of chronic diseases, including breast cancer, but results to date are inconclusive.

The women in the Pennsylvania study each had family histories of breast cancer and were enrolled in a cancer risk assessment program. Findings from the study include:

• 32 percent of the women described themselves as "soy consumers" and 43 percent said they eat at least one soy product per month.
• Of the women identified as soy consumers, more than 70 percent gave "I try to eat a healthy diet" as a reason. "I like the taste" was cited by nearly 60 percent and nearly half said "I believe they will reduce my cancer risk."
• Soy foods most commonly eaten include vegetable burgers, tofu and soy milk.
• Among women who said they did not eat soy foods, the two most popular reasons were "I don't know how to prepare or cook them" and "I dislike their taste." Other reasons included "I don't believe they are healthier for me than other foods" and "They are difficult to find."

The researchers conclude that "a subset of women may be consuming soy for misguided reasons or nonproven health benefits. It is important for health professionals to deliver clear messages about the health benefits, if any, of soy."

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Contact: Kelly Liebbe
media@eatright.org
American Dietetic Association
1-Oct-2005