UICC World Cancer Congress 2006

Objective:Supplements promoting anti-cancer activities are of secondary importance, not prompted in any case to replace the therapeutic approach to ant-cancer medication. Methods: Food supplements i.e, Beta Carotene, derived from plants that body converts into vitamin A, acting as an antioxidant & boosting the immune system. Preliminary evidence suggests that natural beta-carotene supplementation vs synthetic beta-carotene. results in a better antioxidant and anticancer activity in humans. Selenium: Selenium activates an antioxidant enzyme called glutathione peroxidase, is essential for healthy immune functioning & protection against lung cancer . Selenium supplementation has been found to stimulate the activity of white blood cells. individuals consuming a high dietary selenium developed 65% fewer cases of advanced cancer including lung cancer. Tocopherol(Vitamin E):Tocopherol an anti –oxidant is found in green leafy vegetables/ oils, yolk of egg, whole grain, wheat germ oil, nuts& seeds. As per research studies, High blood levels of alpha-tocopherol,, appear to reduce the risk of developing lung cancer in smokers by about 20% . attributed to vitamin E antioxidant and anticancer properties. Flavonoids( Quercetin) : Are found in onions, soy, grape fruit.As per preliminary reports flavonoids, have been associated with a reduced risk of lung cancer.Quercetin inhibit both tumor promoters and human cancer cells. Results: The anti cancer effect of food supplements is attributed to the combined effect of ingredients in that food... Conclusions: The high dietary/blood level of food ingredients in lowering the risk of lung cancer even if established does not necessarily mean that these have a definite cancer reducing effect.