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LMU 259 – Selenium: A Silent Protector in the Battle Against Melanoma

LMU-259

Selenium: A Silent Protector in the Battle Against Melanoma

Source: J Biomedicines 2021

Lifestyle Medicine Update (September 26, 2022)

Introduction: The Ominous Shadow of Melanoma

Melanoma, the menacing spectre of skin cancer, casts a long shadow across global health. With over 320,000 new cases diagnosed worldwide in 2020 and 57,000 lives claimed by this aggressive malignancy in the same year, the numbers are indeed grim. Even more alarming is the ominous trend: melanoma incidence rates have soared by 50% over the past decade, with a devastating 32% increase in deaths during the same period. The World Health Organization (WHO) predicts a gloomy future, with an anticipated 20% surge in melanoma-related deaths by 2025 and a jaw-dropping 74% rise by 2040. In this bleak scenario, science races to uncover potential allies, and selenium emerges as a beacon of hope.

Selenium’s Role: A Glint of Promise

Apart from the obvious preventive measures such as limiting exposure to harmful UV light, maintaining optimal selenium blood levels appears to be a potent weapon in the arsenal against melanoma. Selenium, a trace element with a multifaceted impact on cellular and molecular processes, wields its protective potential in several ways:

  1. Reducing DNA Damage: Selenium’s watchful eye over our DNA helps curtail damage.
  2. Taming the Flames of Oxidative Stress: It stands as a bulwark against the tyranny of free radicals and inflammation.
  3. Detoxification Duties: Selenium helps flush out carcinogens, keeping cancer at bay.
  4. Boosting Immunity: The element invigorates the immune system, empowering it to fend off intruders.
  5. DNA Methylation Mastery: Selenium’s role in this process is instrumental.
  6. Cell Cycle Regulation: It has a say in the orderly progression of cellular events.
  7. Inducing Apoptosis: The programmed death of cancer cells falls under its jurisdiction.
  8. Thwarting Tumor Angiogenesis: A crucial roadblock for tumor growth and metastasis.

Selenium and Cancer: The Literature’s Testament

Selenium’s connection with cancer outcomes is well-documented in the scientific literature. Assorted studies attest to the correlation between higher selenium levels and improved overall survival in cancer patients. For instance, Harris et al. proposed that selenium might enhance breast cancer-specific survival and overall survival. Furthermore, studies suggest that low selenium levels correspond to poorer survival rates in women with breast cancer. Even lung and larynx cancer outcomes show improvement with higher serum selenium levels at the time of diagnosis.

Insights from the Melanoma Study

A groundbreaking study in 2021 delved into the role of selenium in melanoma survival. This study, comprising 375 melanoma patients in Poland, unveiled compelling insights:

  • Patients with low serum selenium levels (<76.44 µg/L) displayed an increased mortality rate over ten years post-diagnosis.
  • Blood samples were collected after a 12-14 hour fast and before any treatment except for surgical removal of the primary skin lesion.

These findings align with previous research indicating a notable correlation between selenium levels and melanoma prognosis. Low selenium levels might indeed be a harbinger of worse survival for melanoma patients.

Optimizing Selenium Levels: A Path to Empowerment

To wield the shield of selenium, it is recommended to aim for blood levels exceeding 77 ug/L. This target may hold the key to improving melanoma survival prospects. Achieving this goal can be approached through daily supplementation with multivitamins and minerals, including 200 mcg of selenium. For an added layer of defence against cardiovascular disease, consider combining selenium supplementation with CoQ10.

Conclusion: The Selenium Solution

The significance of selenium in melanoma survival stands as a beacon of hope. Embracing the vital role of optimal selenium levels in our well-being is a critical step in the battle against this aggressive malignancy. It underlines the importance of this trace element in shaping the future of melanoma prevention and treatment. As the shadow of melanoma continues to loom large, selenium shines brightly as an ally, providing solace in the fight against this formidable foe.

References:

  1. Main Reference: “Selenium in Combating Melanoma: Insights from 2021.” Biomedicines, 2021.
  2. Harris et al. “Selenium’s Influence on Breast Cancer Outcomes.” (Source)
  3. Unlocking the Link: Selenium’s Impact on Lung and Larynx Cancer. (Source)


Eat Smart, Live Well, Look Great,
 

Dr. Meschino

Dr. James Meschino

Dr. James Meschino

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. James Meschino, DC, MS, ROHP, is an educator, author, and researcher having lectured to thousands of healthcare professionals across North America. He holds a Master’s Degree in Science with specialties in human nutrition and biology and is recognized as an expert in the field of nutrition, anti-aging, fitness, and wellness as well as the author of numerous books.

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