New Study: Omega-6 in Seed Oils May Promote Breast Cancer
In early 2025, a breakthrough study published in Science revealed that linoleic acid (Omega-6)—found in vegetable oils like soybean, safflower, and corn—may promote the growth of triple-negative breast cancer in animal and cell modelsScienceDaily.
Researchers found linoleic acid binds to a protein called FABP5 in cancer cells, activating the mTORC1 pathway—a key “switch” for cell growth and metastasis. This was especially significant in triple-negative breast cancer cells which express high FABP5ScienceDaily.
This study marks the first time a clear biological mechanism links dietary fat to cancer progression in this context. Previous studies had mixed conclusions, but this finding explains how excess Omega-6 might fuel certain aggressive cancers.
Scientists warn that modern diets—rich in industrial seed oils and fried foods—contain far more Omega-6 than in the past. This imbalance may be part of the reason certain diseases have become more common.
Experts now urge consumers to rebalance their fat intake by reducing processed vegetable oils and increasing Omega-3 sources like fish and fish oil to protect long-term health.
