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Folic acid may increase risk of breast cancer in offspring

Category: Breast

Folic acid has been shown to reduce homocysteine levels and improve heart health, and in recent years, many people have started taking supplements. However, women who use folic acid may benefit from breast cancer testing, as a new study has found that the nutrient may play a role in the development of the disease.

Additionally, in animal tests, the researchers from St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto found that the daughters of mice that were given high levels of folic acid were significantly more likely to develop breast cancer.

After comparing the effects of a high-folate diet to more moderate intake levels, the researchers found that the female offspring of mothers who received high levels of the nutrient were almost twice as likely to develop breast cancer. Additionally, tumors developed much quicker and in greater quantities.

The study's authors said that much more research is needed to establish the link, and that pregnant women, who are often advised to take folic acid supplements, should not necessarily worry. However, there does appear to be a connection.