"Our results showed diet was the most influential factor in modifying the risk of prostate cancer," said James R. Hebert, ScD, lead author and Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology at the University of Massachusetts Medical School.

"The strongest direct association in the data we found was for animal product consumption," Dr. Hebert said. "Populations having diets high in animal products will have increased rates of prostate cancer mortality. It is apparent from these data, and consistent with findings from other studies, that substituting cereals for animal products, would lead to large decreases in the risk of prostate cancer."

"Overall, we observed results consistent with protective effects from higher intakes of cereals, fish, soybeans, and other nuts and oilseeds," Dr. Hebert continued. "Based on these data, increasing intake of soy products could decrease the incidence rate of hormone-sensitive cancers in general."

"This study provides more evidence that the American Cancer Society's nutritional guidelines are sound advice for all Americans concerned about decreasing their risk for developing cancer," said Gabe Feldman, MD, National Director of Prostate and Colorectal Cancer at the American Cancer Society. "Specifically, countries with populations that tend to eat more fruits, vegetables, soy products and less meat, dairy, refined carbohydrates and alcohol have lower cancer mortality rates."

Dr. Feldman said the study gives no definite proof of the link because it is not a randomized trial. "However, it is another reason for people who are concerned about developing prostate cancer to consider the recommendations laid out by this article which include less meat, dairy, sugar, alcohol and refined carbohydrates and more soy products."