Neal Barnard, MD, FACC, highlights AMA's new breast cancer prevention guidelines

In a recent interview with Contemporary OB/GYN, Neal Barnard, MD, FACC, president of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, addressed current trends, disparities, and preventive strategies in breast cancer care.

A key concern remains the persistent racial disparities. Although Black women are 5% less likely to develop breast cancer than white women, they face a 38% higher mortality risk. Additionally, overall breast cancer incidence rates are gradually increasing, highlighting the need for more proactive and preventive approaches.

Barnard discussed a new policy from the American Medical Association (AMA) aimed at reducing breast cancer risk through lifestyle changes. The AMA encourages clinicians to educate patients and promote 4 main strategies: adopting a plant-based diet, engaging in regular physical activity, minimizing or avoiding alcohol, and maintaining a healthy body weight.

He emphasized that plant-based diets can support weight control, making the first and fourth steps mutually reinforcing. These lifestyle adjustments not only reduce cancer risk but also improve outcomes after diagnosis, offering individuals a greater sense of control over their health.

Despite this, public awareness remains limited. A 2024 survey found that only 28% of women recognized diet as a cancer risk factor, with many prioritizing detection methods such as mammograms over prevention strategies. Barnard highlighted the urgent need to spread awareness about the role of nutrition and lifestyle in cancer prevention.

He elaborated further on specific dietary considerations. For example, soy products—once mistakenly believed to increase breast cancer risk—are now known to reduce it, potentially lowering the risk by 30%. Conversely, cow's milk may raise cancer risk because of the presence of estradiol, a hormone naturally found in milk from lactating cows. Substituting cow’s milk with soy milk offers a simple dietary change with significant benefits.

On alcohol, Barnard noted its well-established link not only to breast cancer but also to several other cancers. Reducing or eliminating alcohol is a key preventive measure.

Finally, Barnard addressed practical barriers in clinical settings. While time constraints and reimbursement issues limit many physicians' ability to offer in-depth lifestyle counseling, he recommended referring patients to registered dietitians.

Barnard also promoted the “Let’s Beat Breast Cancer” campaign by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, which aligns with the AMA’s guidelines, empowering women to take actionable steps to lower their cancer risk and improve long-term health outcomes.

No relevant disclosures.

Reference

American Medical Association adopts new policy to help women reduce risk of developing breast cancer. Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. June 9, 2025. Accessed June 23, 2025. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1086869.