A new study, reported in the medical journal Cancer, adds to earlier concerns expressed about breast cancer patients and antioxidants. Many breast cancer patients attempt to improve their health by taking megadoses of vitamin and mineral supplements. However, the recent study indicates that these supplements may interfere with breast cancer treatments like radiation and some chemotherapy. These cancer treatments work by generating free radicals that attack the tumor cells. Vitamin supplements may "clean up" the free radicals, thereby preventing them from attacking the tumor cells. According to the American Cancer Society, patients should not use vitamins and supplements during cancer treatment. In contrast to taking high doses of vitamins and minerals in pill form, most doctors do not believe that there is any risk in getting antioxidants through high consumption of fruits and vegetables.
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