Fibrocystic breast disease refers to the condition when women’s breasts develop a lumpy texture. This breast tissue contains fluid-filled sacs called cysts. Fibrocystic breasts can become very tender and painful.

Unfortunately, fibrocystic breast disease is common, occurring in up to 90 percent of women. And the rate is rising: An autopsy study conducted in 1928 found a 3 percent incidence of fibrocystic breast disease; in 1973, researchers found an 89 percent incidence.

Many doctors feel fibrocystic breast disease is a benign condition. That is not true. Fibrocystic breast disease is a precursor to breast cancer — though not all fibrocystic breast disease will become cancer.

There are dietary factors that can cause fibrocystic breast disease including ingesting too much caffeine or a deficiency in vitamins E or A. Furthermore, eliminating trans fats from the diet (such as partially hydrogenated vegetable oils) has also been helpful for treating fibrocystic breast disease.

My experience has clearly shown the efficacy of iodine in treating and preventing fibrocystic breast disease. Studies from nearly 50 years ago have shown iodine therapy has a better than 70 percent success rate in eradicating fibrocystic breast disease.