ABSTRACT
This section will attempt to describe succinctly the basis for prevention of cancer by dietary means. An understanding of the processes involved in carcinogenesis is vital to any efforts in prevention. Reference 1 provides information on the metabolic activation of chemical carcinogens to the ultimate forms, which interact with the genetic material of the cell. In addition, the separate stages in carcinogenesis are described; namely, initiation or the first step, promotion or enhancement of the process, and progression or increased growth and expansion of the cancerous cells. Examples of how the different stages can be inhibited or altered are provided.
