6 new and surprising findings about cholesterol
These latest findings could change the way we look at cholesterol
By Kat Tancock
Cholesterol may be linked to cancer
A number of studies have shown a link between high levels of cholesterol and higher risk of cancer, and there has been evidence that people taking cholesterol-lowering drugs have a reduced risk of cancer, as well. And a recent genetic study from the University of Rochester Medical Center shows that there may be a genetic component to the link.
The study shows that a certain gene, called ABCA1, affects how cells process cholesterol – cholesterol that is a vital component of how they function. When this gene ceases to work in cancer cells, they no longer die off as they should and thus contribute to tumour formation.
The study shows that a certain gene, called ABCA1, affects how cells process cholesterol – cholesterol that is a vital component of how they function. When this gene ceases to work in cancer cells, they no longer die off as they should and thus contribute to tumour formation.
Researchers aren't ready to recommend cholesterol-lowering drugs for cancer prevention – that's a way off yet – but this is one more reminder of the complex role cholesterol plays in our bodies.
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