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Food avoidance by women at risk for recurrence of breast cancer
A J McEligot1, C L Rock, E J Sobo
1Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, USA.
Background:
This cross-sectional study examined self-reported restriction of foods by middle-aged and older women at risk for breast cancer recurrence, who were participating in an intervention study, and by women without breast cancer.
Methods:
Data examined were height, weight, dietary intake, and avoidance of specific food types in women with breast cancer (n = 56) and a comparison group of women without breast cancer (n = 51). Data were analyzed with t-tests and chi-square analysis.
Results:
The broad food categories of meat, dairy foods, and sweets were restricted by women both with (53%, 74%, and 62%, respectively) and without breast cancer (47%, 63%, and 63%, respectively). Significantly more women with breast cancer avoided cakes, butter, and milk, compared with women without breast cancer (p < 0.05). Women in both groups attained a mean consumption of >75% of the Recommended Dietary Allowance for many nutrients; however, mean consumption for calcium was <75% of the RDA for the two groups.
Conclusions:
Analysis of food avoidance by women with breast cancer who participate in diet-intervention studies and by women without breast cancer may provide information about adherence to dietary guidelines and adequate nutrient consumption among these populations.