Trace elements under the spotlight: A powerful nutritional tool in cancer

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Nutritional Science
• Environmental Health

Background:

• Cancer is a leading global cause of mortality.
• The role of trace elements in cancer development and prevention is increasingly recognized.
• Trace elements are essential micronutrients with complex biological functions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the impact of trace element intake and supplementation on cancer risk and prevention.
• To evaluate the interactions between trace elements and cancer treatments.
• To explore the potential of integrating dietary interventions with conventional oncology therapies.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of studies on trace elements and cancer.
• Analysis of data on trace element (As, Al, B, Cd, Cr, Cu, F, I, Pb, Li, Mn, Hg, Mo, Ni, Se, Si, Sn, V, Zn) effects.
• Evaluation of interactions between trace elements and chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy.

Main Results:

• Specific trace elements show potential in cancer risk modulation and prevention.
• Trace element supplementation can influence the efficacy and side effects of cancer treatments.
• Dietary interactions and food sources of trace elements are critical for therapeutic strategies.

Conclusions:

• Knowledge of trace elements, their dietary interactions, and food sources can enhance patient quality of life and treatment outcomes.
• Personalized cancer treatments can be advanced by integrating conventional therapies with targeted dietary interventions.
• Trace elements offer a promising avenue for novel, integrated approaches to cancer management.