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Aflatoxin and liver cancer.
1Johns Hopkins University, School of Hygiene and Public Health, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
Bailliere'S Best Practice & Research. Clinical Gastroenterology
|February 2, 2000
Summary
Aflatoxin ingestion is a significant risk factor for liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma). Chemopreventive agents like oltipraz show promise in reducing aflatoxin exposure and its carcinogenic effects, offering new prevention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Hepatology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Aflatoxins are potent carcinogens linked to liver cancer.
- Epidemiological studies show a correlation between aflatoxin exposure and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) incidence.
- Experimental models and biomarkers validate the role of aflatoxins in HCC aetiology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence implicating aflatoxin ingestion as a risk factor for HCC.
- To discuss the potential of chemopreventive agents in mitigating aflatoxin's carcinogenic effects.
- To highlight integrated prevention strategies for reducing HCC in high-risk populations.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological studies on aflatoxin exposure and HCC.
- Analysis of experimental models and biomarker data for aflatoxin exposure.
- Evaluation of clinical trial data for chemopreventive agents like oltipraz.
Main Results:
- Strong correlation observed between high aflatoxin exposure areas and high HCC incidence.
- Biomarkers confirm aflatoxin exposure and its metabolic activation.
- Oltipraz demonstrated ability to lower biologically effective aflatoxin dose by altering metabolism and detoxification.
Conclusions:
- Aflatoxin ingestion is a critical risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma.
- Chemoprevention with agents like oltipraz, alongside HBV immunization and improved food storage, can reduce HCC incidence.
- Multifaceted interventions are crucial for HCC prevention in vulnerable regions.