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Family matters

Do vitamin A and Zinc affect cancer?

Dear WDDTY

I am confused by the cancer report that the Chinese study showed no significant effect among those taking vitamin A and zinc.

This is in complete contradiction to an article about the findings of the same Chinese survey in the New Scientist (22 May 1993), which reported a two thirds reduction in stomach cancer in those taking a vitamin A and zinc formulation. Who is correct? Carol Newman, Dr Hadwen Trust, Hitchen, Herts....

WDDTY replies: We are. The Chinese study (J Nat Canc Inst, 15 September 1993) tested the effects of four combinations of nutrients: A and zinc; riboflavin and niacin; vitamin C and molybedenum; and beta carotene, vitamin E and selenium. According to the study: "Significantly lower total mortality occurred among those receiving supplementation with beta carotene, vitamin E and selenium. . . No significant effects on mortality rates from all causes were found for supplementation with retinol and zinc [or the other combinations]."



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