BRCA MUTATIONS AND DIET: THE PROTECTIVE ROLE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET IN BREAST CANCER REHABILITATION

Pathogenic variants in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes significantly increase the lifetime risk of developing breast and/or ovarian cancer. However, risk variability is modulated by a complex interaction between predisposing genetic factors and non-genetic influences, including metabolic and hormonal determinants. In particular, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and metabolic syndrome play a considerable role in regulating cancer penetrance. Recent studies conducted on BRCA mutation carriers, have demonstrated that a Mediterranean diet-based intervention leads to a significant reduction in circulating IGF-1 levels, as well as in other metabolic parameters, resulting in overall improvement of metabolic homeostasis and systemic inflammation. Overall, these findings indicate that nutritional strategies, particularly adherence to the Mediterranean diet, represent effective approaches in cancer prevention and rehabilitation. Therefore, promoting adherence to the Mediterranean diet should be considered an integrant component of survivorship strategies.