Dietary factors in aetiology and prevention of cancer in man

Chemical carcinogenesis, as presently understood, involves a number of carcinogenic factors which act in series of steps. Some industrial carcinogens may pollute the natural environment and penetrate into food. Many substances which are potent carcinogens in experimental animals exist in nature and are present in the human diet. On the other hand, many substances which are known to inhibit experimental carcinogenesis also exist in human diet. The present review discusses experimental and epidemiological data connected with the human cancer and diet. It also postulates that the dietary prevention of human cancer through "prudent" modification of diet and dietary patterns may be of importance; many of the present data are still confusing and conflicting.