From the Guidelines
Moderate coffee consumption, defined as 4-5 cups per day, is likely to have a beneficial effect on reducing the risk of breast cancer, as evidenced by a recent review of meta-analyses of observational studies and RCTs 1. The relationship between coffee consumption and breast cancer risk has been extensively studied, with most research suggesting a neutral to slightly protective effect.
- Key findings from a 2020 review published in Advances in Nutrition 1 indicate that moderate coffee intake is associated with a probable decreased risk of breast cancer, among other chronic diseases.
- The beneficial effects of coffee on breast cancer risk are thought to be due to its phenolic acids, which may help regulate hormones and reduce inflammation.
- It is essential to note that coffee should not be considered a primary prevention strategy or treatment for breast cancer, and women with certain health conditions, such as uncontrolled hypertension or anxiety disorders, should limit their caffeine intake.
- Additionally, adding excessive sugar, cream, or flavored syrups to coffee can increase caloric intake and potentially negate any benefits, highlighting the importance of moderate and mindful coffee consumption.
- For those concerned about breast cancer prevention, maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, limiting alcohol, and following recommended screening guidelines remain the most important strategies, with coffee consumption being a potential adjunct to these efforts 1.
From the Research
Coffee Consumption and Breast Cancer Risk
- Most studies report no association or a slight negative association between coffee consumption and the risk of developing breast cancer 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The level of risk differs when considering various subgroups, such as menopausal status, hormonal status of the tumor, or genetic mutations 2, 5, 6.
Subgroup Analysis
- Coffee is inversely associated with breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women 2, 5, 6.
- Coffee consumption is associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer in women carrying a BRCA1 mutation 2, 6.
- Possible risk differences exist between slow and fast caffeine metabolizers and with weight 2.
Coffee Consumption After Breast Cancer Diagnosis
- Coffee consumption after breast cancer diagnosis and surgery, associated with tamoxifen and/or radiotherapy, reduced the occurrence of early events 2.
- Nurses can help women who consume coffee to understand the current research regarding the relationship between coffee consumption, breast cancer risk, and mortality 4.
Dose-Response Relationship
- A linear dose-response relationship was found for breast cancer risk with coffee and caffeine, and the risk of breast cancer decreased by 2% for every 2 cups/day increment in coffee intake 6.
- The recommended daily doses were 2-3 cups/d of coffee or ≥5 cups/d of tea, which contained a high concentration of caffeine, particularly in postmenopausal women 5.