Breast cancer is still a scourge for women. However, this disease can be prevented by a healthy lifestyle, among others, often eat fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
The researchers analyzed 26 studies of China's international involving 900,000 women, including 20,000 of whom had breast cancer. They found that women who consumed omega-3 fatty acids from fish most often have a decreased risk of breast cancer 14 percent less.
The study also showed an association with a reduced risk of dose. Mentioned, each 0.1 gram increase in consumption levels of omega-3 per day was associated with a 5 percent decrease in the risk of breast cancer. For comparison, one serving of salmon contains 4 grams of omega-3 fatty acids.
Omega-3 is a type of unsaturated fat that has been known to prevent heart disease and cancer.
However, the researchers say the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids from plants did not show the same effect in reducing breast cancer risk.
In addition, they also discovered the benefits of omega-3 to reduce the risk of breast cancer varies among populations. Among Asians, the benefits may not be as big as the West. According to the researchers, this may occur due to differences in sources of omega-3 are edible.
Benefits of omega-3 in fish is considered the most good to reduce the risk of breast cancer. While not yet clear whether the consumption of omega-3 supplements also provide the same effect.
A review of 48 studies concluded that it is still unclear consumption of omega-3, either from food or supplements, may modify the risk of heart disease or cancer. But that does not mean people should stop a diet rich in omega-3.