Low Selenium Intake Linked to
Increased Risk of Lung Cancer
Low blood levels of the trace mineral selenium may be linked to an increased risk of
lung cancer according to a study in the November 15, 1998 issue of the American Journal
of Epidemiology (Am J Epidemiol 1998;148:975-982). Dr. Paul Knekt and colleagues at
the National Public Health Institute in Helsinki, Finland report that people with blood
selenium levels in the highest third had 60% less risk of lung cancers. The researchers
point out that selenium enhances the immune system, inhibits cell proliferation and may
have other anti-carcinogenic effects.
The article abstract can be found here. |