Dietary risk factors of nasopharyngeal carcinoma in the Setif area in Algeria

Background: The aim of our work was to identify risk factors specific to po pulations in our region for primary prevention of risk behaviors, particula rly eating habits. Methods: We conducted a case-control study on dietary factors of nasopharyn geal carcinoma in the Setif area in Algeria. The study included 72 cases an d 72 controls matched for age, sex and area of residence. The variables ana lyzed were identified by an anthropological study. Results: Increased risk of disease was associated with consumption of tradi tionally preserved foods such as "harissa ", pickled fruit and vegetables a nd dried and salted meat. These factors were commonly found in other endemi c areas. Certain products appeared to be specific to the Setif area includi ng dried and salted far, especially after prolonged exposure. Rancid butter was related to a 4 to 7-fold increase in risk and use of pickling increase d the risk of nasopharyngeal carcinoma 4 to 12-fold depending on the type o f food. Conclusions: These data point to the need for biochemical analysis of food specimens to search for the carcinogenic agents and to the importance of an immediate information and education program on food habits for the populat ions living in this area.