Do different types of fat affect cancer risk and survival?
There is evidence that certain types of fat, such as saturated fats, may have an effect on increasing cancer risk. There is little evidence that other types of fat, such as omega-3 fatty acids (found mainly in fish), mono-unsaturated fats (found in olive and canola oils), or other polyunsaturated fats reduce cancer risk. In one study, high saturated fat intake reduced prostate cancer-specific survival, and in another, mono-unsaturated fat intake lowered the risk of death from prostate cancer. Excess saturated fat intake is a known risk factor for heart disease, a major cause of death in all populations, including cancer survivors. Although trans fats have harmful effects on the heart, such as raising blood cholesterol levels, their link to cancer risk or survival is not clear. Still, survivors (especially those at increased risk of heart disease) should eat as few trans fats as possible. Major sources of trans fats are margarines and snack foods that contain partially hydrogenated oils
