The American Cancer Society estimated there would be around 207,090 new cases of breast cancer diagnosed this year. They also estimate that around 39,840 would die from the disease. Though the risk of cancer can never be zero, there are steps women can take to drop their risk. One recent study shows that a low fat diet may be a step in the right direction.

In the study, researchers analyzed data from 1703 women with breast cancer and 2045 without. The data, collected between 1995 and 1999, indicated a 35% increased risk of breast cancer in those with a high fat intake as compared to those with a low fat intake diet. Specifically, linoleic acid, a fatty acid found in vegetable oils like corn and soy bean, actually promotes the growth of cancer cells. Further, the fatty acids in olive and canola oil, oleic acid, was found to have a beneficial effect. In fact, using vegetable and corn oils was associated with a 30% increased risk of breast cancer when compared to those using olive or canola oil.

With breast cancer awareness month only a day away, many people will wear pink ribbons or pink shirt so show their support. However, while showing support is great, making actual change is the best way to prevent breast cancer. Instead of just wearing pink, pay attention to what you eat to promote your health, and that of your family too.