Energy restriction for breast cancer prevention.

Abstract

Weight gain in adult life is an important risk factor for breast cancer. Observational studies indicate that pre- or postmeno-pausal weight loss is associated with a reduction in risk of postmenopausal breast cancer. Here we summarise lifestyle changes including continuous or intermittent energy restriction and/or exercise which may be beneficial for preventing breast cancer and also potential pharmacological approaches to prevention using energy restriction mimetic agents (ERMAs).