Diet and Breast Cancer Survivorship: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Nutrition Science
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Breast cancer survival rates are improving.
• Diet's role in breast cancer prognosis is an evolving area of research.
• Previous studies show mixed results on dietary impact on breast cancer-specific mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current evidence on dietary factors and breast cancer survival.
• To identify specific dietary components associated with improved outcomes.
• To highlight gaps in knowledge and suggest future research directions.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of observational studies and randomized intervention trials.
• Analysis of associations between dietary patterns, specific foods, nutrients, and mortality.
• Consideration of confounding factors like weight loss and population-specific effects.

Main Results:

• Healthy dietary patterns linked to reduced non-breast cancer mortality.
• Soy food and dietary fiber intake associated with lower all-cause mortality post-diagnosis.
• Vitamin D may benefit those with suboptimal levels; other supplements lack evidence.
• Inconsistent findings for low-fat diets and breast cancer recurrence.
• Emerging research on sugar, carbohydrate, and coffee intake.

Conclusions:

• Dietary factors show potential for improving breast cancer survivor outcomes.
• Evidence is strongest for general healthy patterns, soy, fiber, and vitamin D.
• Results vary by population (Western vs. Asian, postmenopausal vs. premenopausal).
• Further research is crucial for personalized dietary recommendations for breast cancer survivors.