A diet high in omega-3 fatty acids offers protection against advanced prostate cancer by modifying gene expression, say researchers at the American Association for Cancer Research.
In this new study, 466 men diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer tracked their diet and intake of omega-3 rich foods while researchers focussed on changes in a variants of a gene called the COX-2 which increases risk of prostate cancer.
When compared with their peers who didn't eat more omega-3 fatty acids, men with the variants of the COX-2 gene who increase intake of omega-3 fatty acids to 500 milligrams per day saw a 63 percent drop in risk of aggressive prostate cancer.
Not eating more omega-3 fatty acids resulted in a fivefold increased risk of advanced prostate cancer in men with the gene variant linked with higher prostate cancer risk.
This is one of the first studies to show the genetic effect of omega-3 fatty acids on prostate cancer risk, says the lead researcher from University of California. These nutrition researchers recommend eating oily fish such as salmon one or more times per week.
Looking to eat more omega-3 fatty acids? Check out our Healthy Recipes for ideas on how to add more omega-3 rich fish to your daily diet.
This study was published in the March 24, 2009 online issue of Clinical Cancer Research.
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