A widely used ingredient found in everyday cooking oils may have a concerning link to one of the most aggressive forms of breast cancer, according to a new study by researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine. The research, published in the journal Science in March, points to linoleic acid—an omega-6 fatty acid found in high amounts in seed and vegetable oils—as a potential contributor to the development of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), a subtype known for its fast spread and difficult treatment process.
Triple-Negative Breast Cancer and Dietary Link
Triple-negative breast cancer is characterized by its lack of hormone receptors, making it unresponsive to most hormonal therapies. This form of cancer is also associated with a lower survival rate—around 77%—compared to approximately 90% for other breast cancer types. The study found that linoleic acid appears to promote tumor growth by activating a specific growth pathway within cancer cells.
Researchers observed that this pathway is triggered when linoleic acid binds to a protein known as FABP5, which is found in high amounts in triple-negative breast cancer cells. In preclinical tests using a mouse model, a diet high in linoleic acid led to increased tumor development, suggesting a direct link between dietary intake and cancer progression.
Dr. John Blenis, senior author of the study and professor of cancer research at Weill Cornell, explained that the results shed light on how dietary fats may influence cancer development. While the findings are significant, Blenis emphasized that they do not call for the complete elimination of seed oils from diets. Instead, he recommended a balanced approach, especially for individuals who may already be at higher risk for breast cancer.
Expert Insights on Dietary Balance
Stephanie Schiff, a registered dietitian at Northwell’s Huntington Hospital, echoed these concerns, explaining that modern diets tend to include a disproportionately high ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids. According to Schiff, this imbalance can contribute to inflammation in the body—a known risk factor for several chronic diseases, including cancer.
Common cooking oils high in linoleic acid include soybean oil, corn oil, safflower oil, sunflower oil, cottonseed oil, and grapeseed oil. While linoleic acid is also present in meat, eggs, nuts, and seeds, it exists in much smaller quantities in those foods.
Rising Linoleic Acid Intake Since the 1950s
The use of seed oils has increased dramatically since the mid-20th century, largely due to the rise of processed and fried foods. Linoleic acid, while essential in small amounts for building cell membranes and supporting skin and heart health, may pose a risk in excess, the researchers suggest.
Dr. Blenis noted that this study offers valuable insight into how cancer cells respond to specific dietary fats. He stated that it helps define which patients might benefit from dietary changes as part of a personalized approach to cancer prevention.
Despite the alarming findings, experts agree that panic is not warranted. Moderation and dietary balance remain essential. Dr. Blenis emphasized that this research is just one part of a larger puzzle and that a diet rich in whole foods, fruits, and vegetables continues to be a fundamental strategy in preventing cancer and promoting overall health.
Triple-Negative Breast Cancer and Dietary Link
Triple-negative breast cancer is characterized by its lack of hormone receptors, making it unresponsive to most hormonal therapies. This form of cancer is also associated with a lower survival rate—around 77%—compared to approximately 90% for other breast cancer types. The study found that linoleic acid appears to promote tumor growth by activating a specific growth pathway within cancer cells.
Researchers observed that this pathway is triggered when linoleic acid binds to a protein known as FABP5, which is found in high amounts in triple-negative breast cancer cells. In preclinical tests using a mouse model, a diet high in linoleic acid led to increased tumor development, suggesting a direct link between dietary intake and cancer progression.
Dr. John Blenis, senior author of the study and professor of cancer research at Weill Cornell, explained that the results shed light on how dietary fats may influence cancer development. While the findings are significant, Blenis emphasized that they do not call for the complete elimination of seed oils from diets. Instead, he recommended a balanced approach, especially for individuals who may already be at higher risk for breast cancer.
Expert Insights on Dietary Balance
Stephanie Schiff, a registered dietitian at Northwell’s Huntington Hospital, echoed these concerns, explaining that modern diets tend to include a disproportionately high ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids. According to Schiff, this imbalance can contribute to inflammation in the body—a known risk factor for several chronic diseases, including cancer.
Common cooking oils high in linoleic acid include soybean oil, corn oil, safflower oil, sunflower oil, cottonseed oil, and grapeseed oil. While linoleic acid is also present in meat, eggs, nuts, and seeds, it exists in much smaller quantities in those foods.
Rising Linoleic Acid Intake Since the 1950s
The use of seed oils has increased dramatically since the mid-20th century, largely due to the rise of processed and fried foods. Linoleic acid, while essential in small amounts for building cell membranes and supporting skin and heart health, may pose a risk in excess, the researchers suggest.
Dr. Blenis noted that this study offers valuable insight into how cancer cells respond to specific dietary fats. He stated that it helps define which patients might benefit from dietary changes as part of a personalized approach to cancer prevention.
Despite the alarming findings, experts agree that panic is not warranted. Moderation and dietary balance remain essential. Dr. Blenis emphasized that this research is just one part of a larger puzzle and that a diet rich in whole foods, fruits, and vegetables continues to be a fundamental strategy in preventing cancer and promoting overall health.
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