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Micronutrients and Their Role in Oral Cancer: A Review
A Madiyal1, S R Shetty2, G S Babu3
1Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, AB Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences, Nitte University, Mangalore, India,
The West Indian Medical Journal
|March 31, 2017
Summary
Oral cancer, a major global health concern, is linked to carcinogen use. Antioxidants and essential micronutrients may offer protection against DNA damage, potentially preventing oral cancer development.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Oral cancer is a significant global health issue, ranking as the sixth most common cancer worldwide.
- Its incidence is notably higher in South and Southeast Asia, correlating with increased consumption of tobacco and alcohol.
- Precancerous conditions like leukoplakia and oral submucous fibrosis are recognized precursors to oral cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential chemopreventive role of antioxidants in oral cancer.
- To investigate the importance of micronutrients in preventing DNA damage associated with oral cancer.
Main Methods:
- This study reviews existing hypotheses and research on antioxidants and micronutrients in cancer prevention.
- Analysis of the biochemical pathways involving enzymes that protect against free radical-induced DNA damage.
Main Results:
- Antioxidants are hypothesized to possess chemopreventive properties against various cancers, including oral cancer.
- Micronutrients such as zinc, copper, and selenium are crucial for synthesizing enzymes that combat DNA damage.
Conclusions:
- Adequate intake of antioxidants and essential micronutrients may play a vital role in the chemoprevention of oral cancer.
- Further research into these protective mechanisms could lead to novel strategies for oral cancer prevention.
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