[Wheat bran and breast cancer: revisiting the estrogen hypothesis]

Breast cancer is the most relevant form of cancer among women in Latin America. Many studies have evaluated the hormonal mechanisms involved in mammary carcinogenesis, although new focus is aimed towards factors that can potentially be used individually to reduce risk. Wheat bran seems to show a consistent protective effect in mammary carcinogenesis. Wheat bran, besides high level of insoluble fiber, also contains phytic acid and lignins, phytochemicals that have shown to inhibit in vitro and in vivo growth of mammary cancer. The protective effect of wheat bran in breast carcinogenesis is greatest at the promotional phase and when supplemented to a high fat diet. Doses of wheat bran in the 9-12% range have been consistently protective and the inconsistencies observed at higher doses may be dependent on the animal model used. This review examines the protective role of wheat bran in the development of breast cancer and the possible mechanisms involved.