Breast cancer: Why reducing your salt intake is more important than ever

Emerging research and clinical insight are shedding light on the link between dietary choices and breast cancer risk and Associate Professor Sanjay Warrier explains that it is time for women to rethink their salt intake.
 

According to Associate Professor Warrier, reducing your salt consumption may contribute to lowering your risk of developing breast cancer, particularly when viewed in the broader context of hormonal balance, inflammation and lifestyle-driven health factors.
 

Associate Professor Warrier is one of the world's leading breast health and breast cancer surgeons who has built a highly respected practice in Sydney. The practice spans three locations with its main surgical centre located at the Chris O'Brien Lifehouse in Camperdown, and the other
sites at BMA House, Macquarie Street, Sydney and Bondi Junction Medical, Oxford Street, Bondi Junction.
 

In addition to Associate Professor Warrier's breast health and surgical work, he also dedicates considerable time to research exploring and developing advancements in breast cancer detection and treatments to improve outcomes for patients. He also codeveloped Australasia's first Master of Advanced Surgery (Breast Surgery) which is delivered through the University of Sydney.
 

"We already know that high salt intake is associated with chronic inflammation, hypertension and weight gain. But what people may not realise is that excess salt in the diet can also create a physiological environment that increases the risk of cancer, including breast cancer," Associate
Professor Warrier said.
 

Associate Professor Warrier explained that excessive salt consumption contributes to water retention, insulin resistance and elevated blood pressure, conditions that place metabolic stress on the body and, over time, may alter hormonal regulation.
 

These changes can impact estrogen levels and breast tissue health, particularly in women already managing other risk factors such as age, family history or delayed pregnancy.
 

"While salt is not a direct carcinogen, it is a contributor to systemic stress in the body," he said.
 

"We are seeing growing evidence that inflammation and metabolic dysfunction are playing a much larger role in cancer development than previously thought."
 

In addition to avoiding processed foods high in sodium, he is encouraging women to take a comprehensive and empowered approach to their breast health.

"Diet is one of many controllable lifestyle factors," Associate Professor Warrier said.
 

"Reducing salt, minimising processed foods and prioritising a whole food diet can make a meaningful difference when it comes to breast cancer risk. But equally important are other daily choices; avoiding alcohol and smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, staying active and keeping up with screening."
 

He recommended the following as part of a proactive breast health strategy: regular self-breast exams, medical screening appropriate to your age and family history and routine lifestyle checks with your GP or specialist.
 

"Everyday choices accumulate over time. What you eat, how you move, how you sleep, it all matters," Associate Professor Warrier said.
 

"Reducing salt intake is a simple yet powerful step toward reducing inflammation, supporting hormonal balance and protecting long-term breast health."
 

For more information about breast cancer prevention and screening, visit www.drsanjaywarrier.com.au.
 

About Associate Professor Sanjay Warrier

Associate Professor Sanjay Warrier is a past President and current committee member of Breast Surgeons of Australia and New Zealand (BreastSurgANZ). His views are those of his own, not BreastSurgANZ. Associate Professor Warrier's surgery is located at the Chris O'Brien Lifehouse and he also has clinics at Oxford Street, Bondi Junction and Macquarie Street, Sydney. He is published in numerous peer-reviewed journals and won the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital's Patron's Prize for best scientific research.