ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to determine Selenium (Se) levels in Zea mays grains in the Maize belt in Kenya, a region of high esophageal cancer prevalence. Se is required for many essential enzymes, and provides protection against various diseases. Several studies have shown a significant inverse relationship between cancer prevalence and Se levels in diet. Serum Se levels have been observed to be lower in variety of cancer cases compared to controls. Most of the oesophageal cancer cases are in western region counties of Uasin Gishu, Trans Nzoia, and Kakamega. Kenya has one of the highest esophageal cancer incidences of 17.6 per 100,000. The role of Se in cancers is considered to be due to its effect in cell cycle and maintenance of homoeostasis. L-Methionine-gamma-lyase in tumor cells converts selenomethionine into methylselenol, which activates caspase cascade and apoptosis in cancer cells. Both selenite and organic Se induce anti-cancer effects through different pathways.
