A new study from Harvard University has raised questions about how eating eggs might be connected to the risk of certain cancers, particularly those related to hormones, such as breast, ovarian, and fatal prostate cancer. While eggs are widely known for their nutritional benefits, this research highlights the need to better understand how they may also influence cancer risk.
The study, published in the British Journal of Nutrition, was led by researcher N. Keum and a team of scientists. They looked at data from many previous studies using a method called dose-response meta-analysis. This technique allowed them to examine how different amounts of egg consumption may affect the risk of developing specific types of cancer.
Their results showed that eating five or more eggs per week was linked to a higher risk of developing breast cancer in women, compared to people who rarely or never eat eggs. A similar connection was found for ovarian cancer.
In men, eating five eggs per week did not raise the risk of getting prostate cancer overall, but it was associated with a higher risk of dying from prostate cancer if it developed.
The researchers were careful to point out that this doesn’t mean eating eggs causes cancer. Instead, their findings suggest there may be a link that deserves more attention.
Other factors—like overall diet, genetics, or environmental influences—might also play a role. More research is needed to fully understand what’s happening in the body and whether certain compounds in eggs contribute to these risks.
Eggs are a staple in many people’s diets because they are packed with protein, vitamins, and healthy fats. However, they also contain cholesterol and other substances that may affect hormone levels or influence the way cells grow and divide—factors that can be important in hormone-related cancers.
Some earlier studies have hinted at a possible connection between eggs and cancers linked to sex hormones, but the results have been mixed. This new analysis adds more weight to the discussion by looking at a larger pool of data and focusing on how the amount of egg consumption might matter.
The key message from this study is not to avoid eggs completely, but rather to be thoughtful about how many you eat, especially if you are concerned about cancers related to hormones. For people with a family history of breast, ovarian, or prostate cancer—or those who already have other risk factors—it might be worth discussing dietary habits with a healthcare provider.
This research is part of a broader effort to understand how the foods we eat every day can influence our long-term health. Diet is just one part of cancer prevention, but studies like this help individuals make informed choices. Balancing a healthy diet with variety and moderation continues to be one of the best strategies for reducing overall health risks.
In the meantime, scientists will continue to explore how eggs and other foods interact with the body, aiming to provide clearer answers about what supports health and what might increase risks.
For more information about cancer, please see recent studies that plant-based diets may reduce risk of colorectal cancer in men, and Low-fat diet may help stop cancer growth.
For more information about cancer, please see recent studies about How to harness the power of anti-cancer foods and supplements and results showing that Empower your plate: cancer-fighting foods and recipes.
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