(15-11-10) Fish oil lowers risk of breast cancer by 32 percent

by David Gutierrez, staff writer

(NaturalNews) Regularly taking a fish oil supplement may lower the risk of
breast cancer by 32 percent, researchers from the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
in Seattle have found.

"This study is one of the largest studies that have come out showing that
there may be a role for fish oil in the prevention of cancer, specifically
breast cancer," said Lorenzo Cohen, of the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center at the
University of Texas-Houston.

The researchers followed 35,016 post-menopausal women between the ages of 50
and 76 who were taking part in the 10-year Vitamins and Lifestyle (VITAL)
study, an investigation into the effects of non-vitamin supplements on male and
female cancer risk. All participants were residents of Washington state and had
no history of breast cancer.

After an average of six years, the researchers found that women who regularly
took a fish oil supplement were 32 percent less likely to develop invasive
ductal breast cancer than women who did not take the supplements. No
information was available on what doses of fish oil the study participants were
taking.

Invasive ductal breast cancer, in which tumors form in the breast's milk
ducts, is the most common form of the disease. In contrast, lobular breast
tumors form in the organ's milk glands.

The researchers also looked for a breast cancer-preventive effect of the
menopause-relieving supplements black cohosh, dong quai, soy, and St. John's
wort, but found none.

Scientists remain unsure what role fish oil might play in reducing cancer
risk. Since some research has implicated inflammation in cancer risk, the anti-
inflammatory properties of fish oil may explain part of the effect.

"Fish oil, in general, is a very good anti-inflammatory agent, and
inflammation plays a role in cancer development," fish oil researcher Peiying
Yang of M.D. Anderson said.

Fish oil's high content of omega-3 fatty acids may also play a role. Although
previous studies have found no connection between consumption of fatty fish and
lowered cancer risk, fish oil supplements typically contain a higher omega-3
concentration than fish itself.

Omega-3s are known to play an essential role in inter-cell communication,
inflammation control, and the formation of cell membranes. They have also been
linked to lower trigylceride levels, higher HDL ("good") cholesterol levels,
and a lower risk of heart attack and death in people who suffer from heart
disease. They may also decrease the risk of dangerously abnormal heartbeat.

Additional research is underway to determine whether omega-3s and fish oil can
help prevent or treat cancer, dementia, and other mental health conditions.

A growing body of research suggests that the typical Western diet is far too
low in these essential oils, which can be found in fatty fish (such as salmon
and sardines), canola oil, soybeans and flaxseeds. However, because the oils
may cause an increased risk of bleeding if combined with certain medications
including over-the-counter NSAIDs, they should be used only in consultation
with a health professional.

For those wishing to take fish oil supplements, the wide variety of options
can be overwhelming. In addition, these products are not regulated by the FDA.

"Some products may be contaminated with heavy metals," Cohen said. "If you are
not going to get fish oil from the fish itself, do appropriate homework to make
sure you choose a reputable product."

Good Morning America recommends that consumers look for oils that are of high
purity and are certified by U.S. Pharmacopeia, the official NGO that sets
standards for healthcare products sold in the United States. Many over-the-
counter brands meet these standards just as well as name brands, at a
significantly lower price.

A physician or other health practitioner may also be able to help consumers
select a reputable product.

Sources for this story include: http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/OnCall/br... http:
//www.webmd.com/breast-cancer/....

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