Asian spices reduce the risk of breast cancer

Previous studies have found that postmenopausal women who have taken estrogen and progestin hormone replacement therapy have a higher risk of developing breast tumors. Currently, University of Missouri researchers find that curcumin, a popular Indian spice derived from turmeric root, may reduce the risk of cancer for women who have taken alternative therapies. subject.

Salman Hyder, professor of vascular formation and professor of biomedical sciences at the Medical College and Center for Cardiovascular Research, said: 'About 6 million women in the United States use alternative therapies. hormones to treat menopausal symptoms. Progestin exposure will lead to the development of future breast cancer in many postmenopausal women. The results of this study suggest that women can use curcumin to protect themselves from this serious disease. '

In the study, the scientists found that curcumin slowed down the first appearance, reduced the scope of the effect and reduced the replication of progestin-stimulated tumors in animal models. Curcumin also prevents the occurrence of morphological abnormalities in the mammary glands. In previous studies, MU scientists showed that progestin accelerates the development of certain tumors by increasing the production of a molecule called VEGF that helps supply blood to the tumor. By stopping VEGF production, researchers can reduce the growth of breast cancer cells. Curcumin prevents VEGF secretion from breast cancer cells, Hyder said.

Turmeric root and Turmeric powder. Researchers found that curcumin, a popular Indian spice derived from turmeric root, may reduce the risk of cancer for women who have taken hormone replacement therapy. (Photo: iStockphoto)

Hyder commented: 'Curcumin and other vascular-like compounds should be tested as a preventive agent for women to implement hormone replacement therapy containing estrogen and progestin, to minimize or slow the risk. potential breast cancer muscle in combination hormone replacement therapy '.

The authors of the study include Hyder; Candace Carroll, graduate student in biomedical sciences; Cynthia Besch- Williford, professor of pathology at MU Veterinary College of Medicine; and Mark Ellersieck, a professor at the MU Experimental Statistics Station.

Refer:
first. .Curcumin delays development of MPA-accelerated DMBA-induced mammary tumors.Menopause, (in press)