Affiliations: American Health Foundation, One Dana Road, Valhalla,
NY 10595, USA. Tel.: +1 914 789 7141; Fax: +1 914 592 6317; E-mail:
John_Weisburger@nymc.edu
Abstract: The transformation of normal cells by DNA reactive, genotoxic
carcinogens and the growth promotion and development of mutated cells by
enhancing factors is involved in the overall basic mechanism of cancer
induction. Thus, discrimination between genotoxic carcinogens and nongenotoxic
chemicals is essential. The dose-response curves, reversibility, and organ-and
species specificity are distinct. Genotoxic carcinogens are mutagenic, form DNA
adducts, induce DNA repair, and form hydroxy radicals and inappropriate
peroxidation reactions that antioxidants such as those in vegetables, fruits,
and tea can decrease. In contrast, promoters do not form DNA adducts, but raise
cell duplication rates, among other attributes. In the USA, about 35% about 55%
decreased by avoiding the formation of carcinogens, reducing their metabolic
activation, or increasing their detoxification. Excessive dietary salt, and
heterocyclic arylamines formed in cooking of meats or fish, and high intake of
40% vegetables, fruits, tea, soy products, and fibers are protective. We review
nutritional factors involved in cancer and chronic disease causation and
prevention.
Journal: BioFactors, vol. 12, no. 1-4, pp. 73-81, 2000
