Positive Health Online

Abstract

COMBS and colleagues, Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA tested the hypothesis that a dietary supplement of selenium (Se) may reduce the risk of cancer.

Background

Methodology

1312 patients with histories of basal/squamous cell carcinomas, recruited from 1983-1990 were randomly assigned in double-blind fashion to daily oral supplements of either Se-enriched yeast (200 ug/Se/day) or a low-Se yeast placebo. Patients were followed with regular dermatologic examinations through to 1993, representing 8269 person-years of observation. Skin cancer diagnoses were confirmed histologically, plasma Se concentrations were determined at 6-12 month intervals, and deaths and patient illnesses were recorded, confirmed and documented in consultation with medical care providers.

Results

Although Se did not significantly affect the primary endpoints, incidence of recurrent basal/squamous cell skin cancer, Se treatment was associated with reduction in a number of secondary endpoints: total mortality mortality from all cancers combined incidence of all cancers combined lung cancer, colorectal cancer and prostate cancer.

Conclusion

: These results strongly demonstrate the benefits of Se-supplementation, supporting the hypothesis that supplemental Se can reduce cancer risk . Despite the lack of protective effects against non-melanoma skin cancer, the reductions in risk of other frequent cancers demand further evaluation in controlled clinical intervention trials.

References

Combs GF Jr. et al. Reduction of cancer risk with an oral supplement of selenium. Biomed Environ Sci. 10 (2-3): 227-34. Sep 1997.