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Too Much Iron

Iron is an important mineral that’s needed to maintain healthy blood cells, but too much iron can increase the risk of health problems. Studies show that excessive amounts of iron in the diet may increase the risk of heart disease and even certain types of cancer. Now, new research shows that women need to be particularly aware of the effects of too much iron. According to a study published in the International Journal of Cancer, women with high levels of iron may be at increased risk of breast cancer and fibrocystic breast syndrome.

The Effects of Too Much Iron on the Breast: The Study

In this study, researchers found that women with the highest plasma ferritin levels had a higher incidence of fibrocystic breast changes compared to women with lower ferritin levels. (plasma ferritin levels are an indicator of how much iron is stored in the body). Among women with fibrocystic changes of the breasts, higher dietary iron intake was also associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.

What Does This Study Suggest?

Researchers concluded from this study that women with higher iron stores as measured by plasma ferritin levels were more likely to experience fibrocystic breast changes. Fibrocystic breast changes are common in women and are generally not associated with an increased breast cancer risk, except when proliferative changes are seen on biopsy. The research also showed that women who have fibrocystic breasts and a high intake of iron may be more likely to develop breast cancer.

The Effects of Too Much Iron on the Breast: Should You Be Concerned?

Previous studies have shown an association between excess iron consumption and certain types of cancer, so this study may be cause for concern. It’s notable that most previous studies haven’t shown an association between iron intake and breast cancer in women who don’t have fibrocystic breast changes. It’s possible that dietary iron could promote the development of breast cancer in those women who already have fibrocystic breast changes.

The Bottom Line?

It’s hard to make recommendations based on one study, but women who have fibrocystic breast changes might best avoid excess iron either through diets or supplements. Because some pre-menopausal women may be deficient in iron, it’s a good idea to have plasma ferritin levels checked to determine iron status. Most men and post-menopausal women don’t need additional iron if eating a healthy diet, and, in fact, too much can be detrimental in terms of heart disease risk It’s important to get enough iron, but post-menopausal women and men should avoid supplementing unless their ferritin level is low. This is particularly true of women with fibrocystic breast changes.


By Dr. Kristie