Women urged to take measures to cut down risk of breast cancer

A new study has found that taking vitamin and calcium supplements could cut the risk of breast cancer by up to a third. Although vitamin supplements have been criticised by health professionals for having little effect on people’s health, recent research by a medical school into the diet and health of 700 women found that those with nutrients added to their diet were up to 40 per cent less likely to develop breast cancer.

The study examined 268 women with breast cancer and 457 healthy controls, finding that vitamin supplements could cut the risk of breast cancer by up to 30 per cent, with the danger being cut by up to 40 per cent when combined with calcium supplements.

With previous studies also finding that vitamin-rich foods may assist in preventing breast cancer in young women, this new report reinforces the view that added nutrients can contribute to reducing the risk for breast cancer.

Although it was emphasised that the benefits were more long term, and not providing immediate protection, the study may prompt an increase in the consumption of vitamin and calcium supplements by women hoping to avoid the illness. The study also found that it was not necessary to take large doses of vitamins to achieve benefits.

It is hoped that the findings will encourage women to think more about their long-term health, and ensure that they have suitable health insurance policies to protect for the future.