Effect of Dietary Soy on Breast Cancer Recurrence and Mortality: A Review

Abstract

As the number of breast cancer survivors rises, interest in lifestyle modifications that can improve survival increases. The role of soy in breast cancer prevention has been studied and debated for years, and the role of soy’s bioactive compounds known as isoflavones continues to be a focus of research. This review summarizes the existing epidemiologic data evaluating the effect of dietary soy intake on breast cancer recurrence and mortality. While some concern exists regarding the pro-estrogenic effect of soy as a risk factor for disease relapse, the vast majority of data shows no increase in breast cancer recurrence and mortality with dietary soy intake.