Venus Williams Collaborates with PCRM for Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign

Venus Williams has teamed up with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) to promote a breast cancer awareness public service announcement (PSA).

In the video shared on PCRM’s YouTube channel, the renowned tennis player appears with Dr. Kristi Funk, a breast cancer surgeon and proponent of plant-based diets.

Dr. Funk emphasizes the benefits of a plant-based diet in reducing breast cancer risk, stating, "Research shows a plant-based diet reduces the risk of breast cancer and keeps cancer from coming back. I’ve seen it in my patients." Williams adds that she manages her autoimmune disease through a plant-based diet, asserting that protein can easily be obtained from sources like tofu, beans, and other plant foods.

Dr. Funk encourages people to consider their diet for breast health: "I tell every one of my patients, what you eat matters. A plant-based diet is one of the most powerful things you can do for your breast health. So, we’re challenging you to try it. It’s easier than you think." Williams concludes the video by urging viewers to "Beat breast cancer before it even comes for you. That’s the best kind of win."

They invite the public to visit letsbeatbreastcancer.org, which provides information about the link between nutrition, exercise, and breast cancer risk, along with recipes and resources.

A survey conducted by PCRM revealed that only 19 percent of women reported discussing the connection between nutrition and breast cancer risk with their healthcare providers.

As October marks breast cancer awareness month, the PSA is currently being shown in AMC theaters nationwide.

Williams, a seven-time Grand Slam champion and two-time US Open women’s singles titleholder, has followed a predominantly plant-based diet for approximately 15 years. She has stated that this dietary change has positively impacted her athletic performance and health, particularly in managing Sjogren’s Syndrome symptoms. "Plant-based definitely changed my life; it made my skin amazing," she remarked. "Living with an autoimmune disease, things can get a little tricky, and to control my inflammation levels through diet is a godsend."

In September, Williams and her sister, Serena, returned to compete in the US Open Singles.