Optimizing Membrane Composition With C15 and Choline: A Novel Hypothesis to Mitigate Cancer Risk

Cancer incidence has dramatically increased over the past centuries, paralleling dietary shifts in Western nations. This narrative review evaluates whether excess dietary linoleic acid (LA) drives tumor initiation through membrane-mediated oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, and whether pentadecanoic acid (C15:0) and choline can restore membrane resilience and attenuate cancer risk. Historical epidemiological data and mechanistic studies reveal that rising cancer incidence tracks population-level LA exposure, while C15:0 and choline consumption have declined. In cellular and animal models, LA oxidation products activate pro-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic pathways. Conversely, C15:0 resists peroxidation and preserves mitochondrial integrity, while choline normalizes membrane fluidity. A precision-nutrition strategy restricting LA while fortifying C15:0 and choline offers a biochemically coherent complement to conventional oncology. Prospective clinical trials are warranted to validate whether correcting this lipid imbalance can reduce cancer incidence.