Soy Decreases Cancer Risk for Men and Women

Soy intake reduces the risk of prostate cancer and breast cancer in men and women, respectively, according to two new studies that will be released tomorrow in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. An analysis of 14 studies showed that increased intake of soy resulted in a 26 percent reduction in prostate cancer risk. Researchers found a 30 percent risk reduction with nonfermented soy products such as soy milk and tofu.

The second study looked at the dietary patterns of almost 2,400 Asian-American women and found that those with the highest intakes of soy and vegetables had a decreased risk of breast cancer. Those with the highest intakes of meat and starch had a two-fold increased risk. Researchers concluded that lower intakes of meat and starches and higher intakes of legumes and vegetables protect against breast cancer in Asian Americans.