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Selenium and nickel reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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High levels of the trace minerals nickel and selenium in the body may reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer, while high levels of arsenic, lead and cadmium may increase the risk of developing the disease, according to a study published in the journal Gut.
The researchers studied 518 patients, 118 of whom had exocrine pancreatic cancer, the most common form of the disease.
Given that toenails are a more reliable indicator of trace elements than dietary assessments, the scientists examined the participants' toenails.
The study results showed that levels of certain micronutrients were significantly higher or lower among cancer patients compared to controls.
The scientists found that the likelihood of developing pancreatic cancer was 2-3.5 times higher in patients with high levels of arsenic and cadmium, compared with patients with low levels of these elements. In patients with high lead levels, pancreatic cancer was registered 6 times more often, compared with the control group.
Additionally, patients with high levels of nickel and selenium were 95% less likely to have pancreatic cancer than patients with low levels of these trace minerals.
The results remained consistent even after accounting for other known cancer risk factors, such as smoking, diabetes and being overweight.
A third of all pancreatic cancers are thought to be caused by smoking. Tobacco contains cadmium and other metals. Cadmium is a known carcinogen and is associated with an increased risk of lung, kidney, and prostate cancer. Previous studies have shown that selenium may counteract the harmful effects of arsenic, cadmium, and lead.
The authors emphasize that the causes of pancreatic cancer remain largely unknown, despite decades of research.
The results of the study confirm that an increased risk of pancreatic cancer is associated with higher levels of cadmium, arsenic and lead, and also shows an inverse association with high levels of selenium and nickel. These new findings point to an important role for trace elements in pancreatic carcinogenesis.
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