Modification of Carcinogenesis by Dietary and Nutritional Factors

Abstract

It is well recognized that carcinogenesis is affected to a great extent by the diet and nutritional status of the host, but the mechanisms involved, especially those related to undernutrition, are not clearly understood. In this report, the effects of overall undernutrition and specific nutrient deficiencies on carcinogenesis are reviewed. Specific examples concerning deficiencies of ascorbate, riboflavin, retinol, zinc, and protein are presented to demonstrate that these deficiencies may modify carcinogenesis by affecting carcinogen formation, carcinogen metabolism, tumor promotion, and other events. The possible effects of a cyclic or seasonal nutritional deficiency, which. may be common in rural areas, on carcinogenesis are discussed. Special attention is paid to the possible modification of the cytochrome P-450 mediated monooxygenase system and carcinogen activation by dietary and nutritional factors. The effects of alcohol and butylated hydroxyanisole on the metabolism of nitrosamines and benzo(a)pyrene are discussed to illustrate the mechanisms by which these dietary factors can affect carcinogenesis. The esophageal cancer problem in China is discussed to relate our current understanding of carcinogenesis to possible approaches of cancer prevention.