InsideJapan News Network

A study in Japan has identified a link between the consumption of dairy produce and prostate cancer.

According to reports by Mainichi Daily News, the study, conducted by a research team at Japan's ministry of health, labour and welfare, has revealed that the consumption of high quantities of dairy produce significantly increases the risk of developing prostate cancer.

"We need to make an overall evaluation to determine whether it's better to hold off on consuming dairy products, so at the moment it's inconclusive," said a member of the research group.

Specifically, it was identified by the study that those who abstained from consuming dairy produce reduced their risk of developing prostate cancer by a factor of 1.6 times, compared with men who consumed large quantities of the foods.

However, milk and milk-based products contain a number of beneficial substances, including protein, zinc and magnesium, according to the British Nutrition Foundation.