Antioxidants and Cancer

When writing an informative paper regarding the prevention of cancer with antioxidants, it is impossible to only discuss one antioxidant alone. It takes a combination of antioxidants working together to show any signs of difference. The combination in particular that has been studied and has shown signs of cancer reduction are the following antioxidants: beta-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, and selenium.

Many studies have been performed and the findings have been very informative. Certain cancers react differently to certain antioxidants. For example, one study performed determined that vitamin C can reduce the risk of several types of cancers including lung, stomach, and colon cancer. Beta-carotene has also been studied and showed a reduced to produce a reduced risk of lung and stomach cancer. Even with this information, however, the studies did have to take into consideration whether someone with lung cancer was a smoker or someone who is surrounded by smoke. Smokers, naturally, are making their risk of having cancer higher than a non-smoker.

Despite the studies that can be performed and that have been done, many factors have to be considered other than the use of antioxidants alone for the reduction of cancer. Based on the study I have been reviewing, it is estimated that 88-90% of human cancers are environmentally induced and approximately 35% are induced by diet. When a study is performed, many factors have to be considered and based upon that information, studying the significance of each antioxidant or a combination of antioxidants. Studies also have to be allowed time to provide results. In these particular studies I have mentioned, 4 years was allowed to collect and review findings. There is no doubt that antioxidants can be beneficial in the prevention of cancer but also keep in mind the choices you are making concerning your health. Antioxidants have been proven to be beneficial but not a cure.