Folic Acid Intake Tied to Colon Cancer Risk
 (NY, Reuters Health, 1/9/03)

When Dr. Carlo LaVecchia and team analyzed responses from patients throughout Italy to a food questionnaire, the researchers saw a link between colorectal cancer and diets that are deficient in folate-rich foods, like green leafy vegetables and whole grains. The study involved 1,953 patients with colorectal malignancies and 4,000 who were disease-free. The scientists found that colorectal cancer was 40% more prevalent among heavy drinkers (drinking the equivalent of two 12- ounce beers or more daily) and those who were deficient in folate and methionine, the amino acid that helps regulate folate in the body. Researcher's speculate that folate's role in DNA synthesis and repair facilitates this apparent protective effect against cancer.