Vitamin C and cancer prevention: the epidemiologic evidence G Block Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892. Epidemiologic evidence of a protective effect of vitamin C for non- hormone-dependent cancers is strong. Of the 46 such studies in which a dietary vitamin C index was calculated, 33 found statistically significant protection, with high intake conferring approximately a twofold protective effect compared with low intake. Of 29 additional studies that assessed fruit intake, 21 found significant protection. For cancers of the esophagus, larynx, oral cavity, and pancreas, evidence for a protective effect of vitamin C or some component in fruit is strong and consistent. For cancers of the stomach, rectum, breast, and cervix there is also strong evidence. Several recent lung cancer studies found significant protective effects of vitamin C or of foods that are better sources of vitamin C than of beta-carotene. It is likely that ascorbic acid, carotenoids, and other factors in fruits and vegetables act jointly. Increased consumption of fruits and vegetables in general should be encouraged. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol 53, 270S-282S FASEB Journal 1999 Canadian Medical Association Journal, (extract from article on CAM-Febrauary 2001) References High Doses of Antioxidants Do NOT decrease efficacy of Chemo Protective Action of L-Ascorbic Acid & Hepatocarcinogenesis Vit C Pharmokinetics: IV Use is Needed in Cancer Studies an article by Dr.Michael Colgan, nutritionist, author Information on Dr. Michael Colgan Lancet Study, March 2001 New Recommended Dietary Allowance for Healthy Young Women Benefits obtained, British J of Cancer, 6/01 Cancer Letter 8/01 Am J Epidemiology, 2001 Remember we are NOT Doctors and have NO medical training. This site is like an Encylopedia - there are many pages, many links on many topics. Support our work with any size DONATION - see left side of any page - for how to donate. You can help raise awareness of CAM.