Three simple ways to cut cancer risk for over-70s
Over-70s could cut their cancer risk by up to 61 percent through a combination of high-dose vitamin D, omega-3s, and a home strength exercise program, according to new research.
The study, published in Frontiers in Ageing, tested the effect of high daily doses of vitamin D3 (a form of vitamin D used in supplements), daily omega-3 supplements, and at-home exercise when combined with each other and in isolation over three years.
2,157 healthy participants over the age of 70 were given either a combination of the supplements and exercise, single supplements, or a placebo between December 2012 and 2017, with the researchers then assessing the impact of the supplements on the risk of invasive cancers.
Though each supplement was found to have a slight benefit when taken alone, the team found the combination of exercise and supplements had a significant effect.
“This is the first randomised controlled trial to show that the combination of daily vitamin D3, supplemental marine omega-3s, and a simple home exercise program may be effective in the prevention of invasive cancer among generally healthy and active adults aged 70 and older,” Dr Heike Bischoff-Ferrari of the University Hospital Zurich, and the study’s first author, said.
“Our results, although based on multiple comparisons and requiring replication, may prove to be beneficial for reducing the burden of cancer.”
But Dr Bischoff-Ferrari and her team didn’t pick these supplements by chance.
In fact, previous studies have shown that vitamin D stops cancer cells from growing, while omega-3 may prevent normal cells from becoming cancerous.
Even exercise has been found to reduce inflammation and improve immune function, which could also help prevent cancer, according to Eureka Alert!.
But, there have been few robust clinical studies proving that using these three treatments can prevent cancer - which is why Dr Bischoff-Ferrari and her team came in.
With their findings, Dr Bischoff-Ferrari said future studies should try to replicate their findings and continue following up with patients for more than three years to determine how long-term these benefits are.
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