One of the causes of breast cancer may be inflammation caused by harmful bacteria, researchers say. Scientists at Lancaster University say their idea - yet unproven - is supported by the available evidence that bacteria-induced inflammation is linked to cancer.
The researchers say:“There is a simple, inexpensive potential preventative; that is for women to consume natural yogurt daily.”
Yogurt contains beneficial lactose-fermenting bacteria commonly found in milk, similar to the bacteria — or microflora — found in the breasts of nursing mothers.
dr. Rigby said:“We now know that breast milk is not sterile and that lactation changes the microflora of the breast.
“Lactose-fermenting bacteria are commonly found in milk and are likely to occupy women's breast ducts during breastfeeding and for an unknown period of time after breastfeeding.”
Their suggestion is that these lactose-fermenting bacteria in the breast are protective, as each year of breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast cancer by 4.3%.
Several other studies have found that yogurt consumption is associated with a reduction in breast cancer risk, which the researchers say may be due to the relocation of harmful bacteria by beneficial bacteria.
There are approximately 10 billion bacterial cells in the human body and while most are harmless, some bacteria create toxins that cause inflammation in the body.
Chronic inflammation destroys the harmful bacteria but also damages the body. One of the most common inflammatory conditions is gum disease or periodontitis which has already been linked to oral, esophageal, colon, pancreatic, prostate and breast cancer.
The researchers conclude that:“The stem cells that divide to replenish the lining of the mammary ducts are influenced by the microflora and certain components of the microflora have been shown to function in other organs, such as the colon and stomach, the increase the risk of developing cancer.
“Therefore, a similar scenario is likely to occur in the breast, with resident microflora affecting stem cell division and influencing cancer risk.”
