Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in men and women in the United States, according to MedlinePlus. Smoking is the main cause of lung cancer, although exposure to environmental pollutants or asbestos might also increase the risk of developing lung cancer. Treatment depends on how advanced the cancer is but may include any combination of surgery, radiation or chemotherapy. Some people take selenium supplements to support conventional cancer treatments, but it must never be used in place of them. Talk to your doctor before taking supplemental selenium.
Properties and Potential Benefits
Selenium is an essential trace mineral that helps to protect the body's cells from damage by molecules known as free radicals. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, a high intake of selenium may be associated with a lower incidence of death from lung cancer. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center states that it might also help to reduce chemotherapy-related side effects and might also help to prevent lung cancer.
Scientific Research
Clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of selenium as a lung cancer treatment are limited. However, the results of a study published in 2008 in "Nutrition and Cancer" show that taking 200 mcg of selenium daily might help to reduce the risk of developing lung cancer by 25 percent. Furthermore, research findings published in the January 2007 issue of "Oncology Reports" show that selenium makes lung cancer cells more sensitive to the effects of radiation treatment.
Sources and Administration
Food sources of selenium include cod, turkey and spaghetti, although the Office of Dietary Supplements notes that plant-based foods are the richest source of this mineral. Selenium is also available as a dietary supplement. The recommended dietary allowance for adults is 55 mcg daily. However, you might need a higher dose to support lung cancer treatment. Ask your doctor for advice and ensure you follow the instructions on the label of your supplement.
Considerations
Do not use selenium supplements in place of cancer treatment and get medical clearance before adding it your treatment regimen. Also keep in mind that taking more than 1 g of selenium daily might cause side effects including fatigue, dermatitis, hair loss, irritability and body odor. It might also hinder the absorption of vitamin C.
References
- MedlinePlus: Lung Cancer
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Selenium
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Selenium
- "Nutrition and Cancer"; The Nutritional Prevention of Cancer: 400 mcg per Day Selenium Treatment; M.E. Reid, et al.; 2008
- "Oncology Reports"; Enhanced Lung Cancer Cell Killing by the Combination of Selenium and Ionizing Radiation; S.H. Shin, et al.; January 2007
