GENERAL-GUIDELINES FOR A LOW-FAT DIET EFFECTIVE IN THE MANAGEMENT ANDPREVENTION OF NONMELANOMA SKIN-CANCER

A dietary intervention trial has shown a significant reduction in occu rrence of actinic keratosis and nonmelanoma skin cancer in skin cancer patients who adopt diets in which the percentage of calories from fat is markedly lowered The purpose of this study was to examine the diet ary parameters of a few-fat diet found to be effective in reducing occ urrence of skin cancer. Skin cancer patients were taught fat reduction strategies to complement their individual food preferences and life-s tyles. Diet composition was calculated using standard dietary assessme nt and nutrient analysis techniques. The dietary intervention was effe ctive in reducing the percentage of calories from fat to 21 % by Month 4 and maintaining that level for the remainder of the two-year study. Practical dietary advice with respect to reduction of percentage of c alories from fat, along with an increase in the intake of grains, frui ts, and vegetables, could make an important contribution to the manage ment and prevention of skin cancer.