Positive Health Online

Abstract

ROSE and CONNOLLY, Division of Nutrition and Endocrinology, American Health Foundation, Valhalla, NY 10595 USA. david@westnet.com write that epidemiological and experimental evidence demonstrates that long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (FAs), which occur at high levels in some fish oils, exert protective effects against common cancers, particularly those of the breast, colon and perhaps, prostate . The authors review (260 references) the field.

Background

Methodology

Results

and Discussion: Multiple mechanisms are thought to be involved in this chemopreventive activity, including the suppression of neoplastic transformation, inhibition of cell growth, enhanced apoptosis and antiangiogenicity. A common feature of the majority of these biological effects is the inhibition of eicosanoid production from omega-6 FA precursors. Several of the known risk factors for breast and colon cancer may be favourably modified using omega-3 FA supplementation. The implementation of clinical chemoprevention trials is now feasible.

Conclusion

References

Rose DP and Connolly JM. Omega-3 fatty acids as cancer chemopreventive agents. Pharmacology and Therapeutics 83(3): 217-44. Sep 1999.