Compared to individuals who do not consume coffee, the risk of developing breast cancer in regular coffee drinkers can be reduced by up to two-thirds. However, this is only true for certain individuals carrying specific gene mutations.
The breast cancer-fighting properties of coffee are attributed to its rich source of phytoestrogens (natural compounds that promote health), according to Dr. Steven A. Narod from the University of Toronto, Canada. Narod and his team investigated the relationship between coffee consumption and breast cancer risk in approximately 1,700 individuals at high risk due to carrying mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. These participants were sourced from 40 medical centers across four countries.
The results indicated that, compared to non-drinkers, the risk of developing breast cancer decreased by 10%, 25%, and 69% among those consuming 1-3 cups, 4-5 cups, or 6 cups or more of coffee daily, respectively. This is because “the phytoestrogens in coffee have a structure similar to endogenous estrogen but can deactivate estrogen receptors,” Narod explained.
When evaluating the effects of coffee according to different mutation subgroups, the research team found that this alluring bitter-sweet beverage effectively protects individuals with BRCA1 mutations but does not benefit those with BRCA2 mutations.
My Linh (according to Reuters)
