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Inflammation, Nutrition, and Clinical Outcomes in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Narrative Review

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of death among women aged 44–55 years globally. Pro-inflammatory food can cause tissue-level inflammation, thereby creating a carcinogenic microenvironment and promoting breast cancer. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the association between inflammation and nutrition and clinical outcomes in breast cancer survivors.

Recent Findings

Pro-inflammatory diets are associated with a higher mortality risk after diagnosis and worse prognosis after treatment. On the other hand, anti-inflammatory diets may improve tissue-level inflammation and improve the overall prognosis and quality of life of survivors. There is strong evidence that the Mediterranean diet in particular is associated with reduced recurrence risk of breast cancer and improved quality of life of survivors.

Summary

This narrative review provides evidence that there is a strong association between inflammation, dietary habits, and adverse clinical outcomes in breast cancer survivors. It further discusses the current evidence for the role of dietary management in improving clinical outcomes in breast cancer survivors.

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  1. Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, 21 Ilia Papakyriakou, 2414 Engomi, P.O. Box 24005, CY-1700, Nicosia, Cyprus

    Manjinder Kaur Pannu & Constantina Constantinou

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Pannu, M.K., Constantinou, C. Inflammation, Nutrition, and Clinical Outcomes in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Narrative Review. Curr Nutr Rep 12, 643–661 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13668-023-00495-8

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