Approaches for chronic disease prevention based on current understanding of underlying mechanisms

main human cancers and of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Even more important has been the knowledge acquired about the mechanisms underl ying the development of these diseases. In many parts of the world, particu larly in the West, the major cancers associated with dietary habits involve the postmenopausal breast, distal colon, prostate, pancreas, ovary, and en dometrium. Current evidence suggests that the genotoxic carcinogens for all but the last 2 of these diseases stem from the traditional intake of fried and broiled foods such as meats. The surface of these foods contains a cla ss of powerful mutagens, heterocyclic amines, which are carcinogenic to the target organs in animal models. Fish-eating populations have lower inciden ces of heart disease and of many types of cancers than do other populations , which may be the result of the n-3 polyunsaturated oils found in fish. Am ong other dietary practices that may reduce the risk of cancer and cardiova scular disease are consuming 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables daily, w hich provides antioxidants such as quercetin and isothiocyanates; having a high fiber intake, including bran cereal; and drinking 1.5-2.5 L of fluids daily. Tea polyphenols found in black and green tea may have a protective e ffect against heart disease and some cancers. Concentrates of such desirabl e products have been made available in pill form to complement health-promo ting personal lifestyles. Biomedical research funded by The National Instit utes of Health and organizations such as the American Cancer Society has pr oduced sound results that could lead to prevention of chronic disease. The public must heed this information to achieve long-term health.