Cancer Prevention

Genetic testing kits, like 23andMe and AncestryDNA give users background data of their ancestors. Kits are also available to help test food intolerances, all from the convenience of your home. 23andMe has the option to opt into the BRCA gene mutation test. People with this gene mutation have a high risk of breast and ovarian cancer. The New York Times interviewed a woman who opted into this specific test and came back negative. Years later, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. A

The FDA proposed a new rule on March 27, 2019 that will require mammogram centers to tell women more about how dense breast tissue can affect their health and increase their cancer risk. Under this new federal rule, it will require that women receive information about breast density to better inform them of healthcare decisions. The language will tell women if they should consider more image tests or talk to their doctors about their mammogram results. This rule is currently open for public comment

In the past, scientists have studied the potential benefits of green tea for breast cancer. They have found that certain compounds in green tea have anti-cancer effects. A new study recently looked at other types of tea, specifically oolong, green, black and dark tea extracts. The extracts for green and oolong tea stopped the growth of all types of breast cancer cells; whereas the black and dark tea extracts had no effect on the cells. Scientists also noted that people who consume large amounts of