Fish oil lowers risk of breast cancer by 32 percent

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.