Information needed on calcium supplements

Sat., May 13, 2006

Peter H. Gott, M.D. The Spokesman-Review

Dear Dr. Gott: Several years ago, I had a colonoscopy, and two nonmalignant polyps were found and removed. The doctor who performed the colonoscopy told me that to help avoid colon polyps in the future, I should take a daily calcium supplement.

I followed his advice, and I’m now taking one 1,200-milligram capsule of calcium per day.

Recently, one of the doctors who appears regularly on Fox News was discussing prostate cancer. He mentioned that taking a calcium supplement on a regular basis could lead to an increased risk of prostate cancer.

I am now confused.

Should I stop taking the daily capsule of calcium to reduce the chance of prostate cancer? Or should I continue taking the calcium to reduce the chance of getting malignant colon polyps?

Please help me decide.

Dear Reader: I’m confused as well. I was not aware that the colon lining and the prostate gland were so sensitive to supplements of the common calcium mineral.

Please contact your colonoscopy physician to seek his input. Meanwhile, I’ll do some research and get back to you if I can resolve this issue.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “The Prostate Gland”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

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