A recent study published in the journal JNCI Cancer Spectrum suggests that following a healthy diet can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease in individuals who have been treated for breast cancer. The study involved 3,415 women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer between 2005 and 2013 and monitored them through 2021 to examine the relationship between diet quality and cardiovascular events. The researchers used a scoring system based on five diet quality indices, including the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, Nutrition guidelines for cancer prevention, alternate Mediterranean dietary index, Healthy plant-based dietary index, and the 2020 Healthy Eating Index from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
The study found that women whose diets closely aligned with the DASH diet at the time of their breast cancer diagnosis had a significantly reduced risk of heart disease. The DASH diet focuses on consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy, while limiting sodium, red meat, processed meat, and sugar-sweetened beverages. The researchers also observed that higher consumption of low-fat dairy further reduced the risk of cardiovascular disease-related death. The findings suggest the potential for diet modifications to mitigate the risk of heart disease in breast cancer survivors.
The study also highlighted the impact of chemotherapy on the relationship between diet and cardiovascular disease. Specifically, women who received anthracycline chemotherapy and followed the DASH diet had a lower risk of heart disease compared to those who did not follow the diet. The researchers emphasized the importance of healthcare providers offering tailored dietary recommendations to breast cancer patients and promoting evidence-based dietary interventions like the DASH diet. By educating patients on healthy food choices and providing ongoing support, clinicians can help individuals achieve optimal cardiovascular health.
Dr. Parvin Peddi, a medical oncologist and director of Breast Medical Oncology, noted the potential role of lifestyle factors in modifying disease risks for both cardiovascular disease and breast cancer. She emphasized the need for discussions about cardiovascular risk with breast cancer survivors to optimize their long-term health outcomes. Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of non-cancer-related deaths among breast cancer survivors, which may be attributed to factors such as the cardiotoxic effects of treatment, aging, lack of exercise, and smoking. The study suggests that implementing diets aligned with healthy dietary patterns, particularly the DASH diet, may help prevent heart disease in individuals treated for breast cancer.
The findings of the study underscore the significant impact of diet quality on lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease among breast cancer survivors. By incorporating effective dietary interventions, such as the DASH diet, individuals can promote long-term cardiovascular health in this high-risk population. Dr. Bhavana Pathak, a hematologist and medical oncologist, emphasized the importance of dietary indices and specific food types associated with cardiovascular disease risk. The study provides valuable insights into the potential benefits of dietary modifications for reducing the risk of heart disease in breast cancer survivors.
Overall, the research highlights the interconnected nature of cardiovascular disease and breast cancer, emphasizing the importance of lifestyle modifications in reducing disease risks. By addressing factors such as diet quality, exercise, and smoking cessation, healthcare providers can support breast cancer survivors in maintaining optimal cardiovascular health. The study points to the need for a more integrative approach to cancer care that addresses lifestyle factors and empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health. Ultimately, promoting healthy dietary patterns like the DASH diet can play a crucial role in preventing heart disease and improving long-term outcomes for individuals treated for breast cancer.
