Dairy tied to higher prostate cancer risk; plant-based diets offer protection

A Morning Consult survey for the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine found that only 20% of U.S. men know dairy is linked to higher prostate cancer risk, but 66% would consider avoiding dairy after learning of the link. Prior research ties higher dairy intake to greater prostate cancer risk and mortality, while plant-based diets are associated with lower risk and better outcomes, including a 35% lower risk for vegans in the Adventist Health Study-2 and substantial reductions in progression and recurrence for those with plant-heavy diets. The findings underscore the need for better nutrition counseling by healthcare professionals and support for labeling dairy products about cancer risk.