August 06, 2015

Trial to examine flaxseed dietary supplements in ovarian cancer survivors

A two-year clinical trial by the School of Medicine is the first in the United States to examine the effects of flaxseed supplementation in women who have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer. 

Preliminary research suggests flaxseed can slow the growth of ovarian cancer cells. A number of clinical trials are focusing on the dietary benefits of flaxseed, which contains fiber, phytoestrogens (lignans) and omega-3 fatty acids. However, this clinical trial takes a different approach. It aims to determine whether adding flaxseed as a dietary supplement in women who have been previously diagnosed with ovarian cancer can serve as effective maintenance therapy.  

The American Cancer Society predicts that more than 21,000 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer this year. Five-year survival rates range from 13 to 44 percent. 

The clinical trial will take place over a two-year time period. Participants will be asked to consume approximately three tablespoons of ground flaxseed each day for 24 months. 

More information about the flaxseed study is available at siumed.edu/news/graphics/flyers/FlaxseedFlyer.pdf.