Animal-based nutrients associated with greater risk of some types of cancer. (Scientific update: a review of recent scientific papers related to vegetarianism).

A recent study examined dietary factors that could increase risk of developing cancer of the esophagus or stomach. Dietary factors may be important because both the esophagus and the stomach are exposed to the food we eat. Nearly 500 people with cancer of the esophagus, 600 people with stomach cancer, and almost 700 healthy people were studied. Each person was questioned about his or her eating habits three to five years earlier (before those with cancer had cancer). The groups were then compared. Those with cancer of the esophagus or stomach had higher intakes of cholesterol, animal protein, and vitamin [B.sub.12], suggesting that their diets were higher in animal products. Those without cancer had higher intakes of fiber, beta-carotene, and folate, suggesting that their diets were higher in plant-based foods. These results are especially pertinent for people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (also called reflux esophagitis), who are more likely to develop cancer of the esophagus. The results of this study suggest that diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber, and low in animal protein and fat, could be especially useful for those with gastroesophageal reflux disease to reduce their risk of developing cancer of the esophagus.

Mayne ST, Risch HA, et al. 2001. Nutrient intake and risk of subtypes of esophageal and gastric cancer. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prey 10:1055-1062.