As we enter the twelfth month of the year, many begin thinking about making health promoting changes to their life styles, geared to reducing risks to their health and quality of life. According to a new survey of more than 2,000 women, conducted by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, only 28% of US women are aware that dietary choices affect their risk of breast cancer.

Asked which foods might reduce their risk of breast cancer, 23% mentioned vegetables, and 16% selected fruits. Only 17% understood that soy products [1-2 servings per day] could reduce their breast cancer risk, while 16% mistakenly believed soy foods might increase their risk. When asked about consuming dairy products, drinks and foods made from the secretions of the mammary glands of post-pregnancy cows…rich in the hormones and growth factors designed to create a 1,000-1,500 pound adult cow or bull, 24% of polled women indicated they knew high consumption of dairy products may increase the risk of breast cancer.

Breast cancer surgeon, Dr. Kristi Funk said, “It’s clear that many more women need to hear the lifesaving message that what they eat and drink is strongly linked to their chances of developing breast cancer. Science shows nearly 50% of cases are preventable, at least in theory, and in my opinion, 80-90% of cases could be avoided.”

In collaboration with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, Dr. Funk has developed a four-pronged approach to breast cancer risk reduction: eating a plant-based diet, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol intake [if you don’t drink, don’t start], and maintaining a healthy weight.

Once again, the wisdom of the populations living and eating in the Blue Zones sets an excellent example for us all. For those thinking about New Year resolutions, this is inspiring food for thought.

Dateline: Town of Colonie, Albany County, New York State’s Capital Region