High Vitamin E Levels Reduce Gut Cancer Risk
(NY, Reuters Health, 9/25/03)

Dr. Philip R. Taylor, of the National Cancer Institute, in Bethesda, Maryland, and colleagues, report that, based on a Chinese study, people who raise blood concentrations of the alpha tocopherol form of Vitamin E through taking supplements, were less likely to die of esophageal or stomach cancer than those who had lower levels. On the other hand, this form of Vitamin E was inexplicably associated with an increased risk of another type of gastric cancer. In contrast, high levels of the gamma tocopherol form of Vitamin E had no effect on cancer risk. The findings indicate the need for further research into the role of alpha tocopherol in preventing esophagus and stomach cancer.