“Selenium is an essential micronutrient content of approximately 25 proteins , selenoproteins , some of which are enzymes with antioxidant properties that prevent cell damage caused by the byproducts of oxygen metabolism. Thus, low selenium levels are associated with an increased risk of developing bladder cancer , say researchers at the CNIO .

The study, led by Núria Malats , head of the Group of Epidemiology and Molecular Genetics Center , is a meta- analysis that included seven studies published in which were determined in serum selenium levels and toenails of samples from U.S., Belgium , France , Finland and the Netherlands.

From these studies, the authors assessed the risk of bladder cancer and observed a protective effect of selenium, especially in women , which could be due to gender -specific differences in the absorption and elimination of this mineral in the body. The results are published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology , Biomarkers & Prevention.

“The increase in selenium intake is associated with a lower risk of developing bladder cancer , although more studies will be needed to confirm these findings and recommend taking supplements of this mineral , “explains Malats . In fact, the next goal for researchers is to determine the dose- response in a large study in Spain.

Where is selenium?

Selenium is found in plants grown in soils rich in this mineral and animals that graze on them. In addition , there are many products fortified with this element. It is found in bread , cereals , fish , meat and eggs. It is an antioxidant, helps neutralize free radicals , induces apoptosis, stimulates the immune system and assists in the functioning of the thyroid gland .

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Citation :

Andre F.S. Amaral, Kenneth P. Cantor , Debra T. Silverman , Nuria Malats . ” Selenium and Bladder Cancer Risk : a Meta -analysis . ” Cancer Epidemiology , Biomarkers & Prevention. Published online on August 31, 2010 . Doi : 10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-10-0544

Source: SINC