Omega 3 Fatty Acids for Breast Cancer Prevention
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop all current medications, but you cannot participate if you are taking anticoagulants like Coumadin, full dose aspirin, NSAIDs, or omega 3 supplements. If you are on these, you would need to stop them before joining the trial.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Omega 3 Fatty Acids for breast cancer prevention?
Research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oils, may help reduce the risk of breast cancer by inhibiting cancer cell growth and reducing tumor progression. Additionally, higher intake of these fatty acids from food sources is linked to a lower risk of breast cancer recurrence and improved survival rates.12345
Is it safe for humans to take omega-3 fatty acids?
How does the treatment Omega 3 Fatty Acids differ from other treatments for breast cancer prevention?
Omega 3 Fatty Acids are unique in breast cancer prevention because they may reduce cancer risk by altering the balance of fatty acids in the body, specifically increasing beneficial omega-3s like EPA and DHA while reducing omega-6s. This can lead to decreased inflammation and changes in cell signaling that may help prevent cancer, which is different from traditional treatments that often target cancer cells directly.13679
What is the purpose of this trial?
The study aims to determine biological changes associated with a low vs high dose of omega 3 fatty acids, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), over 12 months in women at risk for recurrent breast cancer. The objectives of the trial are to develop mammary epithelial, adipose tissue specific markers of exposure and response to omega 3 fatty acid supplements that can be carried forward into definitive intervention trials of omega 3 fatty acids for breast cancer prevention. The investigators will randomize 80 subjects with hormone receptor negative, HER-2/neu overexpression positive or negative breast cancer to either a high or low dose of omega 3 fatty acids. Using fine needle aspiration to procure cellular samples of breast epithelial and adipose tissue, the investigators will determine the effects of omega 3 fatty acids on mammary specific biomarkers of response.
Research Team
Lisa D Yee, MD
Principal Investigator
City of Hope Medical Center
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for women who've had Stage 0 to III breast cancer that's hormone receptor negative and HER-2/neu positive or negative. They should be done with major treatments like chemotherapy for at least six months, not currently pregnant or nursing, and without other cancers or serious illnesses that could interfere with the study.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either a high or low dose of omega 3 fatty acids for 12 months
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
City of Hope Medical Center
Lead Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator