Ask an Expert: View a Question
 
 
 
 

Ask an Expert is a free question-and-answer service about breast cancer and breast health that is available on weekends. If you'd like to ask a question or comment, please visit us again on Saturday or Sunday. In the meantime, please search the existing topics using the search tool at the top of the page. It's quite possible that one of our many existing topics already addresses your question.

If you would like a consultation with a breast specialist at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center, call 443-778-2778. It is possible to get an appointment for a second opinion within a few days of contacting us.

We hope you find the information helpful!

ForumQuestionsAsk a Question
Facts and Myths about Breast Cancer
Questions on the facts and myths of breast cancer.
646 Ask a Question

AskedPublicly Submitted Question
11/30/2011I have been diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma in my right breast. It has been categorized as Grade 3, Her 2/neu positive, estrogen positive, progesteone negative. The Breast Center Coordinator told me to stop all soy products because consuming soy is like "pouring gasoline on a fire" with this type of cancer. It has not been staged yet as my surgery is scheduled for 12/08. I can't find any information linking soy to increasing the risk of cancer. I have been drinking soy milk for the past 8 years as I thought it would help to prevent health issues. I have NO family history whatsoever. Is soy an issue for me?
RepliedJHU's Breast Center Reply
11/30/2011Thanks for turning to the Johns Hopkins Breast Center. General recommendation is to avoid soy supplements, but soy in food, such as your soy milk, and tofu, is acceptable. It's fine to eat moderate amounts of soy foods as part of a balanced diet. There have been studies of Asian women, who ingest more soy in their diet then women here in the United States, and the results showed an actual decrease of breast cancer occurrence. Talk directly with your breast medical oncologist, or a certified dietician who is educated about breast cancer and diet. Hope this helps and best wishes.

Please note: This service is not intended to provide primary medical advice concerning specific medical care or treatment. Ask an Expert is a free service operated by health care professionals at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center. Due to the volume of questions and their complexity, there are times when medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists or oncology nurses are consulted for their input. These individuals volunteer their time for this service and will respond as soon as they are able. Please do not post or send the same question to us in multiple locations or categories.

 
 
 
 
 

© The Johns Hopkins University, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, and Johns Hopkins Health System, All rights reserved.