Association between selenium intake and the risk of pancreatic cancer: a meta-analysis of observational studies

Quantification of the association between the intake of selenium and risk of pancreatic cancer is still conflicting. Thus, we conducted a meta-analysis to summarize the evidence from epidemiological studies of selenium intake with the risk of pancreatic cancer. Pertinent studies were identified by a search of PubMed and Web of Knowledge to July 2016. The random-effect model was used. Sensitivity analysis and publication bias were conducted. Data from six studies including 1424 pancreatic cancer cases were used in this meta-analysis. Pooled results suggested that highest selenium intake amount compared with lowest amount was significantly associated with the risk of pancreatic cancer [summary relative risk (RR) = 0.659, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.489-0.889, I-2 = 47.6%]. The associations were significant both in case-control studies [RR = 0.618, 95% CI = 0.399-0.956, I-2 = 59.1%] and Americas [RR = 0.570, 95% CI = 0.357-0.909, I-2 = 65.6%]. No publication bias was found. Our analysis suggested that the higher intake of selenium might reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer.