November 25, 2003
NUTRITION NEWS FOCUS
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Today's Topic: Selenium Warning

Selenium is a trace mineral that plays a role in antioxidants in the
body.  A study published in 1995 reported that taking selenium pills
for 4.5 years decreased risk of several types of cancer but not skin
cancers.  A new followup of these same people finds that those taking
selenium actually had significantly more skin cancer.

Over 1,300 patients who already had a skin cancer removed and were
therefore at high risk of a recurrence were given 200 micrograms of
selenium for an average of 4.5 years and then followed for up to
12 years.  There was a statistically significant 25 percent increase
in squamous cell skin cancers in those taking supplements.  The study
was published in the October 1, 2003 edition of the Journal of the
National Cancer Institute.
<
http://jncicancerspectrum.oupjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/jnci;95/19/1477 >

HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Those with the highest
starting blood levels of selenium and taking supplements were at
greatest risk of developing skin cancer.  This study is yet another
example that both low and high amounts of nutrients are harmful.
Selenium is concentrated in Brazil nuts, most red meats, poultry,
shellfish, and dark mushrooms.  Selenium concentrations are also
dependent on local soil amounts.  Supplements got very popular
immediately after the first study was published, but this analysis
suggests caution.