The mineral Boron reduces lung cancer risk in women

Researchers from the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston report that a higher intake of boron in the diet may protect women from developing lung cancer. They explain that dietary boron may play a role in defending against the initiation of cancer that could be triggered by inflammation. Boron is ubiquitous in the food supply. According to the report, the top ten dietary sources of boron include coffee, wine, apples and pears, peanut butter and peanuts, grapes, orange juice, salads, beans, bananas, and broccoli.

The researchers examined the associations between lung cancer risk in women and either boron consumption or hormone replacement therapy (HRT); known to reduce lung cancer risk -- using data from an ongoing study. Compared to the highest intake of boron, the lowest intake was associated with a 92 % increased risk of developing lung cancer.

This trend was more apparent among women younger than 60 years and among heavier women. HRT use was associated with a 31% reduction in lung cancer risk, the researchers note.

The highest risk for lung cancer was seen among women with low boron levels who did not use HRT and were older than 60 years, the investigators say. "Our findings suggest that boron from food sources in the typical US diet, with or without HRT use, offers protection against lung cancer in women,". The study is published in the May 1st, 2008 issue of the American Journal of Epidemiology.