Milk could be the secret weapon in stopping cancer spreading throughout the body. Scientists from the Sydney-based Anzac Research Institute found strong bones were less likely to be penetrated by metastasizing breast cancer cells. A glass of milk, particularly one fortified with extra calcium and vitamin D, could therefore be the way to stop cancer spreading.

Senior research scientist Colin Dunstan said about 70% of patients with advanced breast cancer developed secondary tumours in their bones. The cancer caused the bone to break down painfully and the subsequent regrowth created a "vicious cycle" that gave cancer an ideal environment to grow.

The researchers compared the spread of breast cancer in mice with a low and high calcium diet. They found mice with a dietary calcium deficiency had significantly more cancer cells and more of their bone had been penetrated.

Using a cell phone for more than a decade can double the risk of some brain tumors, according to a new analysis of previous studies. The findings "give a consistent pattern of increased risk for acoustic neuroma and glioma," Dr. Lennart Hardell of University Hospital in Orebro, Sweden and colleagues write, with the greatest risk seen on the side of the head where the mobile phone was held. Hardell and his team report in Occupational Environmental Medicine. September 2007.

Risk: Stress Link to Cancer
Sunday Herald Sun, 7 October 2007, p16; Sunday Times, 7 October 2007, p26; Sunday Mail Brisbane, 7 October 2007, p27; Sunday Telegraph, 7 October 2007, p19

Stressed career women may be at higher risk of developing breast cancer, according to new research. Those working in the high-pressure jobs have been found to be 30% more likely to be diagnosed with the disease, which is the biggest cancer killer among Australian women.

A study of 36,000 women, published in the journal Epidemiology this month, reveals a link between workplace stress and heightened breast cancer risk. The finding is controversial, as past research ruled out stress as a significant risk factor.

Sue Carrick, head of the national research strategy at the National Breast Cancer Foundation said it was difficult to measure and compare stress levels. "What is important is that although we have a much greater understanding of some risk factors for breast cancer, we still do not understand the causes of the majority of breast cancers. We need more research to find the causes of all breast cancers," she said. The new breast cancer study found no increased risk in women who worked part-time.

Prevention: Low-fat, vegetarian diet may stall prostate cancer
Reuters Health, 11 September 2007, New York