Nutrient intakes among rural Transkeians at risk for oesophageal cancer

The frequency of low nutrient intakes was investigated in areas of moderate and high oesophageal cancer incidence in Transkei by means of 24-hour recall and habitual intake studies in children and nursing mothers. The results in moderate- and high-risk regions were similar and habitual intakes of protein, energy, phosphorus, iron, thiamine and vitamin A were generally satisfactory. Intakes of less than two-thirds the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) had a high frequency of inadequate intakes for calcium (90%), nicotinic acid (79%), riboflavin (55%) and ascorbic acid (50%). It is concluded that the possibility of long-standing deficiencies of the latter three vitamins playing a role in oesophageal carcinogenesis should be considered.