Breast Cancer: Omega 3 May Reduce Risk by 33%
Breast Cancer: 33% Lower Risk with Omega-3 Supplements
Lifelong intake of Omega-3 EPA and DHA reduces the risk of developing breast cancer by 33% in mice and improves the chances of early diagnosis. This finding comes from research published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry by a team from the Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences at the University of Guelph, Ontario, Canada.
Understanding Breast Cancer
In Italy, about 40,000 new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed each year. It is the most common cancer among women, affecting 1 in 8 women. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and undergoing regular screenings (such as mammograms and ultrasounds) help reduce the risk of developing the disease.
A Surprising Discovery
Led by Professor David Ma, researchers used a genetically modified mouse model (since ethical concerns prevent such studies in humans) and unexpectedly found a 33% lower incidence of breast cancer thanks to the action of Omega-3 EPA and DHA. They crossbred mice genetically engineered to synthesize EPA and DHA with mice genetically predisposed to develop breast tumors. The offspring were monitored throughout their lifespan for tumor incidence, size, and Omega-3 levels in mammary glands and tumors.
Another group of tumor-prone mice was fed a diet enriched with EPA and DHA and observed similarly. The mice synthesizing Omega-3 had one-third fewer tumors and smaller tumor sizes compared to those unable to produce Omega-3. Their tumors contained higher Omega-3 and lower Omega-6 levels. Similar results were seen in mice fed the Omega-3 enriched diet. Furthermore, tumor size was 30% smaller than in mice not able to produce Omega-3.
Prevention Is Better Than Cure
Smaller tumors are especially important as they allow more time for detection. Early diagnosis can be crucial in determining whether a tumor is treatable. This study is the first to show that lifelong exposure to Omega-3 through diet significantly reduces breast cancer risk and could save many lives through prevention.
Source: Ma DW. et al. Mammary tumor development is directly inhibited by lifelong n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. J Nutr Biochem. 2013 Jan;24(1):388-95. doi: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2012.08.002. Epub 2012 Sep 29.
