Diet and cancer.

Differences in food intake patterns are positively correlated with differences in the incidence of various cancers in world populations. It is postulated here that dietary factors play a vital role in the genesis of several major neoplasms, specifically gastric and colon carcinomas. In addition to the food consumed, such variables as total caloric intake, nutrtional excess or deficit, exposure to carcinogens and consumption of alcohol also increase the risk of cancer. Through recognition of these factors and subsequent long-term manipulation of diet, it should be possible to reduce cancer morbidity and mortality.