The Role of Diet and Lifestyle in Women with Breast Cancer: An Update Review of Related Research in the Middle East

Nutrition Knowledge, Attitudes, and Lifestyle Practices That May Lead to Breast Cancer Risk Reduction among Female University Students in Lebanon

Research has identified both nonmodifiable and modifiable risk factors for breast cancer (BC), with accumulating evidence showing that adopting adequate dietary practices could decrease the risk of this disease. This study aimed to assess nutrition knowledge, attitudes, and lifestyle practices (KAP) that may lead to BC risk reduction among female university students in Lebanon and examine the determinants of their practices. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a convenience sampling method, comprising 356 (response rate: 71.2%) female students at the American University of Beirut aged 18 to 25 years with no history of BC. Participants completed a pre-tested questionnaire addressing the objectives of the study. The modified Bloom's cut-off of 75% was used to categorize knowledge and practice scores as poor or good and attitudes as negative or positive. Large proportions of students had poor knowledge (68.3%), negative attitudes (65.4%), and poor practices (98.0%) scores. Pursuing a health-related major and having a higher GPA were associated with better knowledge and attitudes while being older and having a lower degree of stress were associated with positive attitudes only. Having a lower body mass index (BMI) was associated with better practice scores. Better knowledge significantly predicted higher intake of fruits and vegetables. Overall knowledge and attitudes were significantly correlated with each other, but neither was significantly correlated with overall practice. These findings underscore the importance of implementing public health programs geared towards improving nutrition KAP that may lead to BC risk reduction.

Healthy Lifestyle and Cancer Risk: Modifiable Risk Factors to Prevent Cancer

Cancer has become a serious problem worldwide, as it represents the main cause of death, and its incidence has increased over the years. A potential strategy to counter the growing spread of various forms of cancer is the adoption of prevention strategies, in particular, the use of healthy lifestyles, such as maintaining a healthy weight, following a healthy diet; being physically active; avoiding smoking, alcohol consumption, and sun exposure; and vitamin D supplementation. These modifiable risk factors are associated with this disease, contributing to its development, progression, and severity. This review evaluates the relationship between potentially modifiable risk factors and overall cancer development, specifically breast, colorectal, and prostate cancer, and highlights updated recommendations on cancer prevention. The results of numerous clinical and epidemiological studies clearly show the influence of lifestyles on the development and prevention of cancer. An incorrect diet, composed mainly of saturated fats and processed products, resulting in increased body weight, combined with physical inactivity, alcohol consumption, and smoking, has induced an increase in the incidence of all three types of cancer under study. Given the importance of adopting correct and healthy lifestyles to prevent cancer, global institutions should develop strategies and environments that encourage individuals to adopt healthy and regular behaviors.

The Impact of Vitamin D and Its Dietary Supplementation in Breast Cancer Prevention: An Integrative Review

Vitamin D deficiency is currently a significant public health issue closely linked to numerous diseases, such as breast cancer. This study aims to determine the estimated optimal serum levels of vitamin D to have a protective effect against breast cancer, in addition to exploring the biological mechanisms and risk factors involved. A literature search of articles published in the last 5 years was conducted, and simple statistical analyses using mean and standard deviation were performed to calculate the average concentration of vitamin D from different available studies. It has been observed that serum levels of vitamin D ≥ 40.26 ng/mL ± 14.19 ng/mL could exert a protective effect against breast cancer. Additionally, various biological mechanisms, such as those related to the immune system, and risk factors like diet implicated in this relationship were elucidated. Consequently, it can be concluded that proper serum levels of vitamin D may have a protective effect against breast cancer, and dietary supplementation may be an appropriate procedure to achieve these optimal vitamin D concentrations.

Barriers to Timely Seeking of Breast Cancer Care Among Palestinian Women: A Cross-Sectional Study

PURPOSE

Examining the association of breast cancer (BC) symptom awareness with time to help seeking and exploring barriers to timely presentation may enhance the effectiveness of BC awareness campaigns and early detection efforts. This study aimed to assess the anticipated time for seeking medical advice when experiencing a potential BC symptom among women in Palestine and to identify their barriers to early presentation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A convenience sampling method was used to recruit adult women from hospitals, primary health care facilities, and public areas across 11 governorates in Palestine. A translated-into-Arabic version of the validated BC Awareness Measure was used. The questionnaire consisted of three sections: sociodemographic information, recognition of 13 BC symptoms and reporting time for seeking medical advice, and barriers to early presentation.

RESULTS

A total of 5,257 questionnaires were included. The proportion of participants who would seek medical advice immediately varied on the basis of the nature of BC symptoms. For symptoms related to the breast, the proportion ranged from 25.7% for redness of the breast skin to 53.5% for a lump or thickening in the breast. For symptoms related to the nipple, the proportion ranged from 30.7% for nipple rash to 48.0% for discharge or bleeding from the nipple. Exhibiting good BC symptom awareness was associated with a higher likelihood of seeking medical advice within a week for all BC symptoms. Emotional barriers were the most frequently reported barriers. There was no association between increasing levels of BC awareness and reporting fewer or more barriers.

CONCLUSION

The nature of BC symptoms had an impact on help-seeking behaviors. Participants with good BC symptom awareness were more likely to seek medical advice earlier.

Modifiable risk factors for cancer in the middle East and North Africa: a scoping review

PURPOSE

This scoping review examines controllable predisposing factors attributable to cancer in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region's adult population, highlighting opportunities to enhance cancer prevention programs.

DESIGN

We systematically searched the PubMed, Science Direct, and CINAHL, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases from 1997 to 2022 for articles reporting on the impact of modifiable risk factors on adult patients with cancer in the MENA region.

RESULTS

The review identified 42 relevant articles, revealing that tobacco consumption, obesity, physical inactivity, and diet are significant modifiable risk factors for cancer in the region. Tobacco smoking is a leading cause of lung, bladder, squamous cell carcinoma, and colorectal cancer. A shift towards a westernized, calorie-dense diet has been observed, with some evidence suggesting that a Mediterranean diet may be protective against cancer. Obesity is a known risk factor for cancer, particularly breast malignancy, but further research is needed to determine its impact in the MENA region. Physical inactivity has been linked to colorectal cancer, but more studies are required to establish this relationship conclusively. Alcohol consumption, infections, and exposure to environmental carcinogens are additional risk factors, although the literature on these topics is limited.

CONCLUSION

The review emphasizes the need for further research and the development of targeted cancer prevention strategies in the MENA region.

Vitamin D3 Inhibits the Viability of Breast Cancer Cells In Vitro and Ehrlich Ascites Carcinomas in Mice by Promoting Apoptosis and Cell Cycle Arrest and by Impeding Tumor Angiogenesis

The incidence of aggressive and resistant breast cancers is growing at alarming rates, indicating a necessity to develop better treatment strategies. Recent epidemiological and preclinical studies detected low serum levels of vitamin D in cancer patients, suggesting that vitamin D may be effective in mitigating the cancer burden. However, the molecular mechanisms of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol, vit-D3)-induced cancer cell death are not fully elucidated. The vit-D3 efficacy of cell death activation was assessed using breast carcinoma cell lines in vitro and a widely used Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) breast cancer model in vivo in Swiss albino mice. Both estrogen receptor-positive (ER+, MCF-7) and -negative (ER-, MDA-MB-231, and MDA-MB-468) cell lines absorbed about 50% of vit-D3 in vitro over 48 h of incubation. The absorbed vit-D3 retarded the breast cancer cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner with IC50 values ranging from 0.10 to 0.35 mM. Prolonged treatment (up to 72 h) did not enhance vit-D3 anti-proliferative efficacy. Vit-D3-induced cell growth arrest was mediated by the upregulation of p53 and the downregulation of cyclin-D1 and Bcl2 expression levels. Vit-D3 retarded cell migration and inhibited blood vessel growth in vitro as well as in a chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay. The intraperitoneal administration of vit-D3 inhibited solid tumor growth and reduced body weight gain, as assessed in mice using a liquid tumor model. In summary, vit-D3 cytotoxic effects in breast cancer cell lines in vitro and an EAC model in vivo were associated with growth inhibition, the induction of apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and the impediment of angiogenic processes. The generated data warrant further studies on vit-D3 anti-cancer therapeutic applications.

Factors Associated With Malnutrition in Hospitalized Cancer Patients in a National Oncology Center in Conflict-Affected Settings in Sana'a, Yemen: An Institution-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Background Cancer can significantly impact the nutritional status of patients, which can worsen related complications and reduce the effectiveness of treatment. Malnutrition is a common complication among cancer patients, especially among older adults. This study aims to determine the prevalence of malnutrition among hospitalized cancer patients and identify factors associated with malnutrition. Methodology and methods The cross-sectional descriptive study was performed on 296 cancer patients admitted to the National Oncology Referral Center in Sana'a, Yemen, between February 1 and March 31, 2022. Malnutrition was diagnosed through clinical assessment and screening tools such as screening tools, body mass index (BMI), weight loss percentage, and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC). Descriptive statistics, chi-square, and multivariable logistic regression analysis were used to assess factors associated with malnutrition. Results Of the 296 patients included in the analysis, most were female 225 (76.0%), and the mean age was 45.8 years. The prevalence of undernutrition, as determined by the BMI score, was 48 (16.2%). The prevalence of malnutrition was higher in females 37 (16.4%) compared to males 11(15.5%). The data indicated that 49% of hospitalized patients had experienced weight loss of 5% or more. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that single (AOR=12.93, 95% CI: 1.17-142.77) or widowed (AOR=11.51, 95% CI: 1.05-126.03) marital status, weight loss (AOR=7.56, 95% CI: 3.00-18.69), stomach cancer (AOR=6.77, 95% CI: 1.66-27.70), and breast cancer (AOR=2.60, 95% CI: 1.12-6.03) were associated with an increased risk of malnutrition. Conclusions  The study highlights the importance of evaluating and addressing the nutritional status of cancer patients, especially at the beginning and during treatment, to improve their clinical outcomes. Prospective studies are recommended to further investigate this issue.

Serum fatty acid profiles in breast cancer patients following treatment

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is associated with alterations in lipid metabolism. The treatment of breast cancer can also affect serum lipid composition. The purpose of this study was the examination of serum fatty acids (FAs) profiles in breast cancer survivors to assess if the FA levels normalize.

METHODS

Serum levels of FAs were determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry in a group of breast cancer patients at baseline (before treatment, n = 28), at two follow-up visits at 12 months (n = 27) and 24 months (n = 19) after the breast cancer resection, and in the group of healthy controls (n = 25). Multivariate analysis was performed to assess how FA serum profile changes following treatment.

RESULTS

Breast cancer patients' serum FA profiles at follow-ups did not normalize to the levels of control group. The greatest differences were found for levels of branched-chain (BCFA), odd-chain (OCFA) and polyunsaturated (PUFAs) FAs, all of which were significantly increased 12 months after the surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

After treatment for breast cancer, the patients' serum FA profile differs from the profile before treatment and from controls, especially 12 months after treatment. Some changes may be beneficial - increased BCFA and OCFA levels, and improved n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio. This may reflect lifestyle changes in breast cancer survivors and have an impact on the risk of recurrence.

The Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes Ratio as a Risk Factor of Breast Cancer

The gut microbiome can reflect the health condition of the entire body. Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes, the major phyla of the colon, can influence diseases related to obesity which are also risk factors for breast cancer. Therefore, the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B) ratio was analyzed in patients with breast cancer. Bacterial extracellular vesicles were extracted from the serum of patients with breast cancer and healthy controls. Phyla Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were analyzed using microbiome sequencing. Prognostic factors for breast cancer and serological test results were analyzed for correlations with the F/B ratio. The F/B ratio was three times lower in patients with breast cancer than in healthy controls. In addition, the risk factor for breast cancer, such as fasting serum glucose, was found to be related to the F/B ratio. The F/B ratio can be used as a risk factor of breast cancer and as a clue to explain underlying mechanisms affecting the development of breast cancer.

Risk of developing depression among breast cancer patients in Palestine

Background

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer among women. Studies have shown that cancer patients can develop depression impacting their quality of life, treatment outcomes, and survival rates. This study aimed to determine the risk factors, severity and prevalence of depression among females diagnosed with BC in multiple hospitals across Palestine.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at different cancer treatment centers in Palestine using a previously developed questionnaire consisting of 23 questions to assess the severity of major depressive disorder among females diagnosed with breast cancer. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) was included in the questionnaire.

Results

Out of 223 respondents, 79 (35.4%) have developed moderate to severe depression. Chi-square results revealed that the risk of developing moderate to severe depression was higher among females who suffer from side-effects related to BC treatment (P < 0.011), females who knew the BC stage at the diagnosis step (P < 0.031), and negative implications on BC patients in Palestine (P < 0.009).

Conclusion

Breast cancer patients have an increased risk of developing major depressive disorder. Patient assessment and treatment for depression at the time of BC diagnosis, during the treatment journey, and monitoring after treatment completion is essential for patient quality of life and BC treatment outcomes.

Awareness of Palestinian Women About Breast Cancer Risk Factors: A National Cross-Sectional Study

PURPOSE

This study aimed to assess awareness of Palestinian women about breast cancer (BC) age-related and lifetime risks and its risk factors and to identify factors associated with good awareness.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Adult women were recruited from government hospitals, primary health care centers, and public spaces in 11 governorates in Palestine. Recognition of 14 BC risk factors was assessed using a translated-into-Arabic version of the validated BC awareness measure. The level of BC risk factor awareness was determined on the basis of the number of risk factors recognized: poor (0-4), fair (5-9), and good (10-14).

RESULTS

Of 6,269 potential participants approached, 5,434 agreed and completed the questionnaire (response rate = 86.7%). A total of 5,257 questionnaires were included: 2,706 from the West Bank and Jerusalem and 2,551 from the Gaza Strip. Only 173 participants (3.3%) recognized the age-related risk of BC. More than one quarter (n = 1,465; 27.9%) recognized the lifetime risk of BC. The most recognized modifiable risk factor was not breastfeeding (n = 4,937; 93.9%), whereas the least recognized was having children later on in life or not at all (n = 1,755; 33.4%). The most recognized nonmodifiable risk factor was radiation exposure (n = 4,579; 87.1%), whereas the least recognized was starting the periods at an early age (n = 1,030; 19.6%). In total, 2,024 participants (38.4%) demonstrated good BC risk factor awareness. Participants from the Gaza Strip had a higher likelihood than participants from the West Bank and Jerusalem to have good awareness (42.0% v 35.2%). Age ≥ 40 years, postsecondary education, and visiting hospitals and primary health care centers were all associated with an increase in the likelihood of having good BC risk factor awareness.

CONCLUSION

The awareness of BC risk factors was suboptimal. These findings highlight the need for implementing health education programs combined with consistent use of ad hoc opportunities to raise awareness by health care providers.

Understanding the relationship between illness perceptions of breast cancer and perceived risk in a sample of U.A.E. female university students: the role of comparative risk

BACKGROUND

In the Middle East region, the incidence of breast cancer (BC) has substantially increased in the last years. Despite a considerable body of research about BC in Arab countries, how illness perceptions of healthy women about BC may influence risk perception is unknown.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted on a sample of 298 young Emirati women. The measures included demographic information, illness perceptions, and risk perception. Descriptive and correlational analyses were performed to assess illness perceptions about BC, perceived individual risk and comparative risk. A structural equation modelling (S.E.M.) was built to investigate the relationship between illness perceptions and perceived individual risk.

RESULTS

Participants reported negative illness perceptions about BC The individual risk perception and the compared risk perception for BC were low. Participants with a family history of BC reported more negative illness and higher risk perceptions. The relationship between illness perceptions and perceived individual risk was significant and mediated by compared risk. The S.E.M. explained 55.9% of the variance in predicting perceived individual risk for BC.

CONCLUSION

Women's views of BC are important factors in risk perception and may provide culturally sensitive clues to promote early screening for BC in Arab countries. This may be important for policymakers to design intervention strategies to lower health risks, considering the different ways in which women perceive their risks for BC.

Evaluating breast cancer websites targeting Arabic speakers: empirical investigation of popularity, availability, accessibility, readability, and quality

Background

Nowadays, patients have access to all types of health information on the internet, influencing their decision-making process. The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region consists of 22 countries with an estimated population of around 600 million. Breast cancer is the highest diagnosed cancer in this region. Websites are commonly the go-to cancer information sources. A large population of the MENA region is only fluent in the Arabic language, thus access to Arabic websites is in more demand. However, little is known about breast cancer websites that cater to an Arabic-speaking audience. This study aims at evaluating Arabic breast cancer websites and offering recommendations to improve engagement and access to health information.

Methods

This study employed a cross-sectional analysis approach. Google trends was used to reveal the top searched topics across the MENA region, which in turn were used as search terms to identify the websites. To be included, a website had to be active, available in Arabic, and contain breast cancer information. The evaluation was based on a combination of automated and expert-based evaluation methods through five dimensions: Availability, Accessibility, Readability, Quality, and Popularity.

Results

Overall most of the websites performed poorly in the five dimensions and require careful reassessment concerning design, content, and readability levels; Only one website performed well in all dimensions, except for readability. Generally, the readability scores indicated that the websites were above the recommended level of reading. None of the websites passed the automated accessibility tests. The expert evaluation using the “Health on the Net” checklist showed good results for most websites.

Conclusions

Breast cancer rates are rising in the MENA region, therefore having comprehensive, accurate, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand health information in their native language is a must. The results from this study show a need for improving the accessibility to breast cancer information websites available to Arabic speakers. The search was limited to three search engines yielding 10 websites and only one tool was used per dimension. Future work is needed to overcome these limitations. Collaboration between multiple stakeholders is necessary to develop websites that contain easy-to-read and understand high-quality information.

Risk of developing depression among breast cancer patients in Palestine

Background

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer among women. Studies have shown that cancer patients can develop depression impacting their quality of life, treatment outcomes, and survival rates. This study aimed to determine the risk factors, severity and prevalence of depression among females diagnosed with BC in multiple hospitals across Palestine.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at different cancer treatment centers in Palestine using a previously developed questionnaire consisting of 23 questions to assess the severity of major depressive disorder among females diagnosed with breast cancer. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) was included in the questionnaire.

Results

Out of 223 respondents, 79 (35.4%) have developed moderate to severe depression. Chi-square results revealed that the risk of developing moderate to severe depression was higher among females who suffer from side-effects related to BC treatment (P < 0.011), females who knew the BC stage at the diagnosis step (P < 0.031), and negative implications on BC patients in Palestine (P < 0.009).

Conclusion

Breast cancer patients have an increased risk of developing major depressive disorder. Patient assessment and treatment for depression at the time of BC diagnosis, during the treatment journey, and monitoring after treatment completion is essential for patient quality of life and BC treatment outcomes.

Risk of developing depression among breast cancer patients in Palestine

Background

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer among women. Studies have shown that cancer patients can develop depression impacting their quality of life, treatment outcomes, and survival rates. This study aimed to determine the risk factors, severity and prevalence of depression among females diagnosed with BC in multiple hospitals across Palestine.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at different cancer treatment centers in Palestine using a previously developed questionnaire consisting of 23 questions to assess the severity of major depressive disorder among females diagnosed with breast cancer. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) was included in the questionnaire.

Results

Out of 223 respondents, 79 (35.4%) have developed moderate to severe depression. Chi-square results revealed that the risk of developing moderate to severe depression was higher among females who suffer from side-effects related to BC treatment (P < 0.011), females who knew the BC stage at the diagnosis step (P < 0.031), and negative implications on BC patients in Palestine (P < 0.009).

Conclusion

Breast cancer patients have an increased risk of developing major depressive disorder. Patient assessment and treatment for depression at the time of BC diagnosis, during the treatment journey, and monitoring after treatment completion is essential for patient quality of life and BC treatment outcomes.

Assessment of lifestyle changes during coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic in Gondar town, Northwest Ethiopia

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 has had a global effect on people’s lifestyles. Many people have developed irregular eating patterns and become physically inactive, which leads to an aggravation of lifestyle-related diseases and unhealthier lifestyles; these, subsequently raise the severity of coronavirus disease 2019. This study aimed to assess lifestyle changes during coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic in Gondar town, North West, Ethiopia.

Method

Community-based cross-sectional study design was conducted among households at Gondar town from June to August 2021. The study participants were selected by a systematic random sampling technique from proportionally allocated kebeles. Data were collected using face-to-face interview techniques and were entered and analyzed by using a statistical package for the social sciences version 24; P-values < 0.05 were considered as statistically significant.

Result

Overall, 348 study participants were included in the study. Among those respondents, 52.3% (182) were female study participants and the mean age of the respondents was 30.95±14.4. In this study, there was a significant decrement in non-homemade food from 20.4% to 13.4% at (P = <0.001). Concerning water intake, 11.5% (40) of respondents consumed ≥8 cups/day before the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, and the percentage increased to 14.7% (51) during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic (p = 0.01). Of the participants, 46% participants were reported never engaging in any physical activity before the coronavirus pandemic, and the percentage decreased to 29.9% during the pandemic (P = 0.002). The respondents also exhibited increment tension in large from 4.9% to 22.7% before and during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, respectively. Furthermore, about 6.3% of the study participants slept badly before the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemics and the effects of sleeping badly and restlessly increased to 25.9% during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic (P = <0.001).

Conclusion

The current study demonstrates that there is a noticeable alteration in food consumption, food choices, regular mealtime, sleeping habits, mental exhaustion, and practice of physical activity.

Diet, Obesity, and Sedentary Lifestyle as Risk Factor of Breast Cancer among Women at Yogyakarta Province in Indonesia

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer prevalence remains high worldwide, including in Indonesia. Studies examining relationship between obesity, dietary habit, sedentary lifestyle, and breast cancer development are largely inconclusive. AIM: This study aimed to determine relationship between obesity, dietary habit, sedentary lifestyle, and breast cancer risk among women at Yogyakarta Province in Indonesia. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study on 135 women selected purposively during March–May 2019. Binary logistic regression models were employed in the analysis with 0.05 considered significant. RESULTS: Among study subjects, 54.07% and 40% were, respectively, ≥40 years old and smokers. About 53.33% consumed preserved food 3–6 times/week, and 49% and 50.37% consumed sweet food and beverage >1 time/ day, respectively. High body mass index (BMI) and physical inactivity were associated with 93% and 85% breast cancer risk reductions (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 0.07, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.01–0.45, p < 0.01 and AOR: 0.15, 95% CI: 0.05–0.47, p < 0.001). Smoking showed no significant relationship. A waist circumference (WC) of ≤80 was linked to 78% breast cancer risk reduction. Sweet food, sweet beverage, and energy drink consumption of >1 time/day led to 96%, 36%, and 84% reductions of invasive breast cancer risks. Meanwhile, consumption of preserved food 3–6 times/weeks and soft drinks >1 time/day correlated with an increased risk of breast cancer. CONCLUSION: High BMI, physical inactivity, and lower WC were associated with the lower breast cancer risk, while preserved food and soft drink consumption significantly increase the risk. Although sedentary lifestyle seems to have a small protective effect, healthy lifestyle should be encouraged and effective strategies are required to encourage women to adopt healthy lifestyle.

Benefits of Dietary Management in Breast Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The World Cancer Research Fund/American Institute of Cancer Research recommendations include guidance on diet, nutrition, and weight management for people with cancer. However, for women diagnosed with breast cancer there is a lack of comprehensive analyses on the effects of dietary interventions. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of changes in dietary behavior and body composition on breast cancer development. A comprehensive and systematic literature search of 12 electronic databases was undertaken on January 27, 2021 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of dietary interventions for breast cancer. The Cochrane risk bias assessment tool was used to evaluate the quality of the trials identified with the data analyzed by Review Manager 5.3 software. The results showed that dietary interventions probably did not modify servings of fruit (P = 0.08), fat intake (P = 0.10), total cholesterol level (P = 0.82), body weight (P = 0.08), waist circumference (P = 0.15), or waist-to-hip ratio (P = 0.32). However, a significant reduction in body mass index (P = 0.03), and hip circumference (P = 0.03), and improvement in energy intake (P = 0.02), vegetable servings (P < 0.0001), and fiber intake (P < 0.00001) were observed. Future studies should investigate the benefits of exercise in combination with dietary interventions in breast cancer patients.Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/01635581.2021.1957129.

Breast Cancer Awareness and Associated Factors Amongst Women in Peshawar, Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, and the second overall, following lung cancer. Breast cancer can occur at any age, with an increased incidence in women 40 years and above. Worldwide the incidence is around 1 million cases per year, 60% of the cases reported from low- and middle-income countries. The current study was conducted to determine knowledge, attitude, and practices related to breast cancer, the associated risk factors, and screening methods in women presenting to a health care facility from resource-poor settings in Pakistan.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study design was used, and participants were recruited phase-wise from three major outpatient departments (OPDs) (Gynecology and Obstetrics OPD, Medical OPD, and Surgical OPD). Data were collected through the validated "Breast Cancer Awareness Measure" developed by Cancer Research UK, King's College London, and University College London in 2009. Data were analyzed through Statistical Package for Social Sciences software (SPSS) version 23.0. Students's T-Test, ANOVA, and linear regression analysis were conducted.

RESULTS

A total of 430 women were invited for participation in the study from the 3 main OPDs, and 400 took part in the study (response rate = 93.02%). The mean age of the women was 33.62 years ± 12.3 years, and the mean years of formal education were 5.05 ± 6.3 years. Less than a quarter of the participants were aware of the breast cancer warning signs, and 23.3% recognized the pain in the armpit or one of the breasts as a sign of breast cancer. The proportion of women aware of age-related and lifetime risk of getting breast cancer was 15.0%. Furthermore, only 2.5% performed breast self-examination at least once a month. Women identified many barriers like embarrassment, transport, and confidentiality issues in seeking medical help.

CONCLUSION

Overall, women had poor knowledge of breast cancer, related warning signs, breast self-examination, risk factors, and screening methods.

Metabolic syndrome and unfavorable outcomes on body composition and in visceral adiposities indexes among early breast cancer women post-chemotherapy

PURPOSE

The study objected to investigate potential changes in metabolic, dietary, and nutritional status in women with stages I-III breast cancer exposed to chemotherapy.

METHODS

Women who were starting chemotherapy with no previous treatment were recruited. Anthropometrics, bioelectrical impedance analysis, handgrip strength, blood pressure and blood sample were collected. Visceral adiposity index and lipid accumulation product were calculated. Dietary intake was evaluated, and the multiple source methods program was applied. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) was assessed following the NCEP-ATP III criteria (defined as 3 of 5 components of MetS). All data were collected at 2-time points: diagnosis (T0) and after 1 month of completion of therapy (T1). Mean, standard deviation, percentage, and ANOVA in SAS Studio® were used to explore the results.

RESULTS

61 women were included. We did not find any changes in anthropometrics and body composition. However, phase angle, extracellular water (EX) and ratio EX to total body water had expressive changes (p < 0.001). The results showed changes in lipid profile (p < 0.001), and greater unfavorable outcomes on adiposities index (p < 0.001). At the end of the study, 68,8% (N = 42) of the women developed MetS post-chemotherapy.

CONCLUSION

We have found supporting evidence for chemotherapy treatment resulting in worsening of nutritional markers, lipid profile and adiposity markers. After chemotherapy part of the sample developed MetS, even without changes in body weight, fat mass, and food intake. Breast cancer patients may benefit from targeted interventions before starting chemotherapy to prevent MetS post-treatment, and therefore reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Further investigation into this theme is needed.

Impact of Lifestyle Behaviors on Cancer Risk and Prevention

Cancer incidences are rising globally. Therefore, in order to prevent and treat cancer, understanding cancer pathology is crucial. Tumors reprogram their metabolic phenotype to meet their needs for bioenergy, biosynthesis, and redox control. Alteration of the metabolic pathway has been proposed as the hallmark of cancer and explains the distinction between normal and cancer cells concerning nutrient utilization. Changes in the metabolism of nutrients such as glucose, amino acid, and fatty acid are associated with cancer risk. Luckily, this can be controlled with lifestyle modifications. Improvements in lifestyle behaviors to reduce cancer risks include a healthy diet, calorie restriction, and regular physical activity. This review begins with the understandings of metabolic reprogramming in cancer. Then, there will be evidence on the correlation between lifestyle factors and altered nutrient metabolism suggesting an application of lifestyle intervention for cancer risk reduction.

Total Antioxidants Activity and Proximate Analysis of Selected Fruits and Vegetables in Jashore Region, Bangladesh

Antioxidant plays essential roles in the maintaining of good health. Fruits and vegetables are the primary sources of antioxidants. Antioxidant contents in fruits and vegetables could vary in geographical distribution and also in the same soil for different time intervals. Therefore, the present study aimed to analyze the total antioxidant status and proximate analysis of some selected locally available fruits and vegetables and they were Mangiferaindica, Musa acuminate, Psidium guajava, Carcia papaya, Lagenariasiceraria, Trichosanthesdioica, Momordica charantia, Basella alba, and Amaranthus gangeticus from three villages. In this analysis, total antioxidant status was determined by DPPH free radical scavenging assay, and proximate analysis of moisture, ash, fat (Soxhlet extraction method), and protein (Kjeldahl method with N × 6.25) were determined as the method outlined in AOAC (2005). Among the four fruits sample, Papaya hadthe highest moisture content (88.08%)but was lower in ash, protein, fat, and carbohydrate contents. Among the vegetables, Bottle gourd had the highest moisture content (94.14%).Regarding all samples, Red amaranth showed the highest ash (1.59%) and protein (4.32%) content. However, both Mango and Papaya showed the lowest protein content (0.70%). Fat content was low in Papaya and Bottle gourdwith 0.10% and 0.15% respectively. For the carbohydrates, Banana was the greatest source with 22.62%. Furthermore, among the fruits Guava had the highest total antioxidants activity of 70.90% and among vegetables, Bitter gourd had 45.47% which was the highest compared to other studiedvegetables. Whereas, Indian spinachhad the lowest antioxidants activity and the value was 28.60%. The above results indicate that the selected fruits contents higher levels of antioxidant activity compared to selected vegetables samples.

Eating Habits and Lifestyle during COVID-19 Lockdown in the United Arab Emirates: A Cross-Sectional Study

The coronavirus disease is still spreading in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with subsequent lockdowns and social distancing measures being enforced by the government. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of the lockdown on eating habits and lifestyle behaviors among residents of the UAE. A cross-sectional study among adults in the UAE was conducted using an online questionnaire between April and May 2020. A total of 1012 subjects participated in the study. During the pandemic, 31% reported weight gain and 72.2% had less than eight cups of water per day. Furthermore, the dietary habits of the participants were distanced from the Mediterranean diet principles and closer to "unhealthy" dietary patterns. Moreover, 38.5% did not engage in physical activity and 36.2% spent over five hours per day on screens for entertainment. A significantly higher percentage of participants reported physical exhaustion, emotional exhaustion, irritability, and tension "all the time" during the pandemic compared to before the pandemic (p < 0.001). Sleep disturbances were prevalent among 60.8% of the participants during the pandemic. Although lockdowns are an important safety measure to protect public health, results indicate that they might cause a variety of lifestyle changes, physical inactivity, and psychological problems among adults in the UAE.

Nutrition and Breast Cancer Research in Arab Countries: Gaps, Opportunities, and Recommendations

According to the WHO, Arab countries have the highest relative increase in Breast Cancer (BC) rates worldwide. Current shifts in dietary patterns in these countries are postulated as important modifiable risk factors of the disease. The objectives of this review were to examine the gaps and opportunities in the extent, range and nature of nutrition-related BC research in Arab countries. Studies (n = 286) were identified through searching 14 electronic databases. Among the gaps identified were limited international collaborations, preponderance of laboratory-based research at the expense of population-based research, focus on single supplement/nutrient/food research, limited use of dietary assessment tools, and studying nutrition in isolation of other environmental factors. Despite these gaps, several opportunities appeared. The distribution of papers among Arab countries suggested that collaboration between high and middle income countries could create a positive synergy between research expertise and wealth. In addition, the steady increase in the number of articles published during the last two decades reflected a promising momentum in nutrition and BC research in the Arab world. These gaps and opportunities constituted context-specific evidence to orient nutrition and BC research in Arab countries which could ultimately lead to development of effective interventions for prevention of BC in these countries.

Adherence to "dietary approaches to stop hypertension" eating plan in relation to gastric cancer

Background

Although adherence to “Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension” (DASH) dietary pattern has been linked with reduced risk of several cancers. To our knowledge no studies have examined the association between the DASH dietary pattern and risk of gastric cancer. This study was performed to investigate the association between adherence to the DASH dietary pattern and odds of gastric cancer in Iran.

Methods

This hospital-based case-control study was conducted on 178 histo-pathologically confirmed patients with gastric cancer and 276 sex-matched healthy controls. A validated 146-item Diet History Questionnaire (DHQ) was used to assess participants’ usual dietary intakes. The DASH dietary pattern scores were calculated using the method introduced by Fung. Unconditional logistic regression, in which potential confounders were taken into account, was applied to determine the association of adherence to the DASH dietary pattern and odds of gastric cancer.

Results

Mean age of cases and controls were 60.8 and 53.2 y, respectively. After controlling for age, sex and energy intakes, participants in the highest tertile were 62% less likely to have gastric cancer than those in the lowest tertile (OR 0.38; 95% CI 0.22,0.65; P_trend < 0.004). Further adjustment for other potential confounders, including education, marital status, residential place, alcohol intake and smoking, did not change the association dramatically (OR 0.44; 95% CI 0.25, 0.78; P_trend = 0.005). Even after additional controlling for H-Pylori infection and BMI, greatest adherence to the DASH dietary pattern was associated with a 54% decreased risk of gastric cancer (OR 0.46; 95% CI 0.26, 0.83; P_trend = 0.01).

Conclusions

Adherence to the DASH dietary pattern was associated with lower gastric cancer risk in this case-control study.

Familial/inherited cancer syndrome: a focus on the highly consanguineous Arab population

The study of hereditary cancer, which accounts for ~10% of cancer cases worldwide is an important subfield of oncology. Our understanding of hereditary cancers has greatly advanced with recent advances in sequencing technology, but as with any genetic trait, gene frequencies of cancer-associated mutations vary across populations, and most studies that have located hereditary cancer genes have been conducted on European or Asian populations. There is an urgent need to trace hereditary cancer genes across the Arab world. Hereditary disease is particularly prevalent among members of consanguineous populations, and consanguineous marriages are particularly common in the Arab world. There are also cultural and educational idiosyncrasies that differentiate Arab populations from other more thoroughly studied groups with respect to cancer awareness and treatment. Therefore, a review of the literature on hereditary cancers in this understudied population was undertaken. We report that BRCA mutations are not as prevalent among Arab breast cancer patients as they are among other ethnic groups, and therefore, other genes may play a more important role. A wide variety of germline inherited mutations that are associated with cancer are discussed, with particular attention to breast, ovarian, colorectal, prostate, and brain cancers. Finally, we describe the state of the profession of familial cancer genetic counselling in the Arab world, and the clinics and societies dedicated to its advances. We describe the complexities of genetic counselling that are specific to the Arab world. Understanding hereditary cancer is heavily dependent on understanding population-specific variations in cancer-associated gene frequencies.

Seeds

A wide variety of plant species provide edible seeds. Seeds are the dominant source of human calories and protein. The most important and popular seed food sources are cereals, followed by legumes and nuts. Their nutritional content of fiber, protein, and monounsaturated/polyunsaturated fats make them extremely nutritious. They are important additions to our daily food consumption. When consumed as part of a healthy diet, seeds can help reduce blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure.

Nutrition in the Prevention of Breast Cancer: A Middle Eastern Perspective

This paper reviews the escalating burden of breast cancer (BC) in the Middle East (ME) and the prevalence of modifiable risk factors and underscores opportunities to promote the prevention of the disease. Similar to more developed countries, BC is the most frequent cancer among women in countries of the ME, accounting for one-third of total cancer cases and 24% of total cancer deaths. Average age at BC diagnosis appears to be a decade earlier in Middle Eastern countries compared to the Western countries, and its incidence is predicted to further increase. Although incidence rates of BC are still lower in Middle Eastern countries than Western ones, mortality rates are similar and at times even higher. It is estimated that 30% of BC cases are due to environmental and lifestyle factors, such as obesity and diet and hence can be preventable. The ME suffers from surging rates of obesity, with eight of its countries ranking among the highest worldwide in obesity prevalence among adults aged 18 and above. ME countries with the highest prevalence of obesity that are among the top 20 worldwide include United Arab Emirates (UAE), Lebanon, Egypt, Libya, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Kuwait with rates ranging from 30% in UAE to 37% in Kuwait. In parallel, studies in the ME have consistently showed a shift in dietary intake whereby traditional diets, rich in fruits and vegetables, are progressively eroding and being replaced by westernized diets high in energy and fat. Accumulating evidence is reporting convincing association between consumption of such westernized diets and higher BC risk. Addressing these risk factors and studying their association with BC in terms of their nature and magnitude in Middle Eastern countries could provide the basis for intervention strategies to lower the risk and alleviate the burden of BC in these countries.

Effect of age at first use of oral contraceptives on breast cancer risk: An updated meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

We evaluated the relationship between the age at first use of oral contraceptives (OC) and breast cancer (BC) risk.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Embase, and related reviews published through June 28, 2018, and used summary relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to evaluate the cancer risks, and fixed-effects dose-response meta-analysis to assess potential linear and non-linear dose-response relationships.

RESULTS

We included 10 studies, with 8585 BC cases among 686,305 participants. The pooled RR for BC was 1.24 (95% CI: 1.10-1.41), with moderate heterogeneities (I = 66.5%, P < .001). No significant publication bias was found (P = .584 for Begg test, P = .597 for Egger test). A linear dose-response relationship between the age at first OC use and BC risk was detected (P = .518 for non-linearity). Subgroup analyses were restricted to studies done by BC subtypes, region, sample size, follow-up time and study quality. Inconsistent consequences with no statistical significance were explored when limited to studies from Western countries, study quality <7, sample size <10,000, follow-up time <5 years, and BC subtypes defined by estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER-2) expression status in tumor tissue. Sensitivity analyses indicated that our results were stable and reliable after removing each study in turn and omitting studies of adjusted unreported variables.

CONCLUSION

A significant linear relationship between the age at first OC use and BC risk was confirmed. No further consistent differences are noted in multiple aspects of BC subtypes defined by progesterone or ER status.

Impact of Obesity on Clinicopathologic Characteristics and Disease Prognosis in Pre- and Postmenopausal Breast Cancer Patients: A Retrospective Institutional Study

PURPOSE

To investigate the association between obesity and breast cancer clinicopathologic characteristics at presentation along with prognostic impact among Jordanian breast cancer patients. Such data are lacking in Arabian countries.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, 348 breast cancer patients were included. Analyses were conducted for associations between body mass index (BMI) and age at diagnosis, tumor clinicopathologic characteristics, and molecular subtypes. Eight prognostic factors were considered, and total prognostic scores were calculated. The analysis was stratified by menopausal status. Multivariate logistic stepwise regression analysis was conducted to identify predictors for breast cancer recurrence and death.

RESULTS

Mean age at diagnosis was 50.98 ± 10.96 years. Mean BMI at diagnosis was 29.52 ± 5.32 kg/m². Mean age at diagnosis was significantly higher for overweight and obese patients compared to underweight/normal patients (P < 0.001). A significant positive correlation was observed between patient age and BMI at diagnosis (r = 0.251, P < 0.001). Grade of carcinoma was significantly correlated with BMI in the whole population examined (P=0.003). Obese breast cancer patients had significantly higher prognostic scores compared to nonobese cases, indicating worse prognostic features at presentation (P=0.034). Stratification of data analysis based on menopausal status revealed significant associations between obesity and each of tumor stage and grade among postmenopausal but not premenopausal patients (P=0.019 and P=0.031, respectively). Similarly, postmenopausal obese patients had significantly higher prognostic scores compared to nonobese counterparts (P=0.007), indicating worse prognosis, a finding which was also absent among premenopausal breast cancer patients. No significant association between BMI with expression status of hormone receptors, HER2, lymphovascular invasion, and molecular subtypes was found among patients. BMI was a significant predictor for disease recurrence in which obese breast cancer patients had greater odds (2-fold) to develop locoregional and distant recurrence compared to nonobese cases (P=0.011).

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity was associated with advanced stage and grade of breast carcinoma at diagnosis. The impact of BMI on clinicopathologic characteristics and prognosis was confined to postmenopausal cases. Jordanian obese breast cancer patients are at greater risk of breast cancer recurrence and reduced survival compared to their nonobese counterparts.