Selenium cuts prostate risk

The Facts:
* It is believed that selenium has antioxidant properties that may potentially protect against prostate cancer.
* As part of a larger screening study, baseline serum selenium levels in 724 men who developed prostate cancer during an 8-year follow-up were compared with those in 879 healthy men of similar age.
* Serum selenium levels were not associated with prostate cancer risk in general but higher levels may reduce risk in men with a high vitamin E intake, in multivitamin users and in smokers.

Shaun’s comment: It is well known that New Zealand selenium levels are low in the soil and therefore in food produced here, but the consequences for health due to this are not well understood. With respect to cancer prevention, there is conflicting evidence that selenium may help to prevent cancer due to its antioxidant effects or action on the immune system. This study provides some, but not overwhelming evidence, that selenium may reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

Study reference:
http://www.ajcn.org/cgi/content/abstract/85/1/209