DIETARY CANCER RISKS OF LOW-INCOME AFRICAN-AMERICAN AND WHITE WOMEN

The diets of 210 low-income African-American and white women were asse ssed for cancer-related components, and comparisons were made between the two groups on various food components. Energy intakes were inadequ ate for both groups, with African Americans having a significantly hig her intake. Fat intakes for both groups were above the recommended 30% of kilocalories, but fiber intakes were less than half of the recomme nded amount. Meats and possible meat sources of nitrites and mutagens were not excessive. A majority of both groups consumed inadequate amou nts of vitamins A, C, and E; folate; calcium; milk; vegetables; and fr uits. Dietary imbalances appeared to pose a significant cancer risk fo r these women.