Nutrition and Cancer

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Nutrition and Cancer

Nutrition and Cancer (pronunciation: /nuːˈtrɪʃ(ə)n ænd ˈkænsər/) is a field of study that explores the relationship between dietary habits and the risk, development, and progression of cancer. The term originates from the Latin words 'nutritio' meaning nourishment and 'cancer' meaning crab, a term used by the ancient Greeks to describe tumors because of their crab-like shape.

Overview

The study of Nutrition and Cancer involves understanding how certain foods and nutrients affect the cellular processes involved in the development of cancer. This includes the study of antioxidants, phytochemicals, and other nutrients that may have a protective effect against cancer. It also involves the study of dietary patterns and behaviors that may increase the risk of developing cancer.

Related Terms

  • Dietary Patterns: The combination of foods and beverages that make up an individual's complete dietary intake over time.
  • Antioxidants: Substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals, unstable molecules that the body produces as a reaction to environmental and other pressures.
  • Phytochemicals: Chemical compounds produced by plants, generally to help them thrive or thwart competitors, predators, or pathogens.
  • Cellular Processes: The series of complex and coordinated biological tasks performed by cells, such as growth, replication, and response to stimuli.

Importance

The importance of Nutrition and Cancer lies in its potential to inform cancer prevention and treatment strategies. By understanding how diet and nutrition influence cancer risk and progression, it may be possible to develop dietary guidelines and interventions that can reduce cancer risk and improve outcomes for those diagnosed with the disease.

See Also

External links

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