[CorineB]

I’m trying to get pregnant and have been researching information so that I can have a healthy pregnancy. I’ve read and heard that taking too much folic acid could possibly increase the risk of developing certain cancers. Does anyone know if taking more than the recommended amount of folic acid can increase my risk of developing breast cancer specifically? Developing breast cancer has always been a great fear of mine.

[Amanda]

I’m a nursing student currently studying in my third year! Research shows that if a woman has a history of breast cancer in her family, that woman may be predisposed to such cancer cells that could potentially lead to breast cancer development. However, research indicates that consumption of higher levels of folate before and during pregnancy actually decreases the risk of breast cancer development by 30% to 35% (Koren, Goh, & Klieger, 2008). I would talk to my family doctor for further information.

Koren, G., Goh, Y., & Klieger, C. (2008). Folic acid: the right dose. Canadian Family Physician, 54(11), 1545-1547.