Studies in the past have showed conflicting results as to the effect of diet on the development of breast cancer.  In one of the largest studies reported, over 90,000 pre-menopausal nurses were followed for almost a decade.  It was found that the self-reported consumption of red meat and high-fat dairy foods was associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.  The authors concluded that animal fat intake was associated with a higher risk of breast cancer; and that by choosing a diet low in red meat and dairy fat,  young women would not only be lowering their risk of future heart disease but that they might also lower their risk of breast cancer.  To learn more about the role of food in causing and preventing cancer,  listen to the podcast between our nutritionist Rick Weissinger and myself on the subject.