Omega-3 fatty acid in fish oil can prevent skin cancer

Scientists from University of Manchester conducted a clinical trial on the effects of omega-3 fatty acids in skin immunity. The researchers now confirmed that regular intake of omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil can prevent skin cancer by increasing skin immunity against harmful rays in sunlight. The study has been funded by the Association for International Cancer Research.

The study results have been published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

According to Prof. Lesley Rhodes, Department of Experimental Dermatology, Photobiology Unit Dermatology Centre, University's School of Medicine and Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, sunlight plays a vital role in suppressing the immune system (immunosuppression) that results in skin cancer. Omega-3 fatty acids can prevent the immunosuppression by modulating the immune function. This is the first human clinical trial to study the effects of omega-3 fatty acids in immunosuppression, Dr. Lesley said.

Nearly 79 healthy volunteers were included in the trial study, and they received 4g, regular doses of omega-3 fatty acids. The dose is approximately equivalent to consumption of 2 oily fishes every day. Then the participants were exposed to direct, midday sunlight of 8, 15 or 30 minutes. 80 participants were included in the study, and they received a placebo before sunlight exposure.

When compared to the placebo group, decreased levels (50%) of immunosuppression were observed in omega-3 fatty acid received group who was exposed to 8 and 15 minutes. However, no significant protection was observed on 30 minutes exposed people, and in participants who did not receive omega-3 fatty acids.

The study results can be helpful to combat skin cancer, and the researchers warned that omega-3 fatty are not a substitute for sunscreen lotions.

Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial against heart diseases, aging relating eye disorders and several cancers including prostate cancer.

In 2010, nearly 1, 00,000 UKpeople were diagnosed with skin cancer and it emerges as a global healthcare problem.