Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center researchers have announced study findings that suggest a higher intake of
selenium may reduce the risk of advanced
colorectal cancer. Selenium is a trace mineral that is essential to good health but required only in small amounts.
The antioxidant properties of selenium prevents cellular damage from free radicals. Free radicals contribute to the
development of cancer. Brazil nuts and tuna have the highest levels of selenium. According to the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, observational studies indicate that death from cancer, including lung, colorectal, and prostate cancers, is lower among people with higher blood levels or intake of selenium. In addition, the incidence of nonmelanoma skin cancer is significantly higher in areas of the United States with low soil selenium content. Selenium may also prevent or slow tumor growth. Certain breakdown products of selenium are believed to prevent tumor growth by enhancing immune cell activity and suppressing development of blood vessels to the tumor.
