Study finds plant compounds can protect against breast cancer

A new study has found that a specific type of plant compound could help to reduce rates of mortality resulting from breast cancer.

Scientists from the German Cancer Research Centre have conducted an investigation into why diets that are rich in phytoestrogens has been shown to lower the risk of breast cancer developing after menopause.

It found that women with high level of enterolactone – a compound generated by the digestion of phytoestrogens such as lignans, which are found in seeds – have a significantly lowered risk of breast cancer mortality.

Study leader Dr Jenny Chang-Claude said this may be due to the compound inhibiting oestrogen-stimulated growth in certain tumour types, adding that further research among a wider population is needed.

She added: "By eating a diet that is rich in wholemeal products, seeds and vegetables, which is considered to be health-promoting anyway, everybody can take in enough lignans."

According a recent study from Cancer Research UK, breast cancer rates among middle-aged women have risen considerably since the late 1970s.