Vitamins & Cancer

The relationship between vitamins and cancer, specifically vitamin A, B complex, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, and vitamin K are discussed in a review completed by Mamede et al. (2012).  The pathway in which vitamin A achieves anticarcinogenic effects is poorly understood, but research has demonstrated promising roles in the prevention and treatment of many cancers. B complex functions as many coenzymes and are important methylators in cellular processes, thus influencing cancer via proto-oncogenes. Research has repeatedly demonstrated the benefits of vitamin C where pharmacologic concentrations act as proxidants harming cancer cells without damaging normal cells in the body.

Mamede, A. C., Tavares, S. D., Abrantes, A. M., Trindade, J., Maia, J. M., & Botelho, M. F. (2011). The role of vitamins in cancer: a review. Nutrition and Cancer, 63(December 2012), 479–494. doi:10.1080/01635581.2011.539315

Vitamin D & Cancer

Garland et al. (2009) review the evidence supporting high serum levels of vitamin D and it's role in lowering the risk of colon, breast, ovarian, renal, pancreatic, aggressive prostate and other cancers. Data extrapolated from NHANES reports that women with higher exposure to UVB light had half the risk of breast cancer compared to those with lower UVB exposure.  15-year survival and metastatic rates in breast cancer are improved with 25(OH) D serum levels higher than 29 ng/mL. Statistics cited in this review indicate that an intake of 2,000 IU/day of vitamin D3 would lead to 25% reduction in risk of breast cancer and 27% reduction of risk in colorectal cancer in North America.

Garland, Cedric F., Gorham, Edward D., Mohr, Sharif B., Garland, F. C. (2009). Garland_2009_Vitamin_D_for_Cancer_Prevention_Global_Perspective.Pdf. Aep.

The Power of Green Tea

In a review written by Chung et al. (2010) the cancer preventative mechanisms of green tea polyphenols are discussed in detail.  The polyphenolic structure found in green tea is a reactive oxygen scavenger acting as a powerful antioxidant in the body. Research cited in this review has demonstrated the inhibitory effects of green tea on lung, intestinal, and prostate tumor growth.  Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is decreased as a result of inhibition of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling with administration of green tea polyphenols in vivo.  Large human trials with tea polyphenols are underway and are likely to provide further evidence of cancer preventative effects of green tea.

Yang, C. S., & Wang, X. (2010). Green tea and cancer prevention. Nutrition and Cancer, 62(December 2012), 931–937. doi:10.1080/01635581.2010.509536

Mediterranean Diet

A meta-analysis of international prospective cohort studies, spanning 1995-2008, completed by Sofi et al. (2008) examined adherence to a Mediterranean diet and associated health status.  Mortality from cardiovascular disease, cancer, and risk of Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease were included in the meta-analysis.  Results of the study showed that those that adhered to the diet had statistically significant reduction in mortality (RR=0.91, CI= 0.89, 0.94) in addition to reduced mortality in cardiovascular disease, cancer, and risk of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.

Sofi F, Cesari F, Abbate R, Gensini GF, Casini A. Adherence to Mediterranean diet and health status: meta-analysis. BMJ. 2008;337:a1344. doi:10.1136/bmj.a1344.