Phyto-oestrogens and cancer
In this review, Herman Adlercreutz from the University of Helsinki, Finland, discusses the consumption of phyto-oestrogen-rich foods such as soy, a source of isoflavones, and whole grain products, which contain lignans, and their role in the prevention of breast, prostate, and colon cancer. In women, a soy-containing diet is more likely to protect against breast cancer if regularly consumed before puberty or during adolescence.
Hormonal resynchronisation-an occupational hazard
This month’s Leading Edge editorial discusses the effect of jetlag on cancer risk in light of new data recently presented at the American Association of Cancer Research. It highlights how destabilised concentrations of the hormone melatonin (which regulates the ‘body clock’) could increase breast-cancer risk in female flight attendants. The editorial concludes by emphasising the need for the consideration of the impact of unsocial shift patterns on long-term health outcomes.
Other Reviews:
Population screening for cancer-related germline gene mutations
Reactivation of replication of hepatitis B and C viruses after immunosuppressive therapy: an unresolved issue
Impact of the Human Genome Project on the clinical management of sporadic cancers
An oncological view on the blood-testis barrier
The Lancet Oncology