Melanoma: Eating Citrus like Grapefruit and Orange Juice Causes Increased Cancer Risk

Scientists have taken a closer look at dietary patterns and have found that frequent consumption of citrus, such as whole grapefruit and orange juice, may be associated with an increased risk of melanoma.

In this latest study, the researchers look at the dietary patterns of more than 100,000 Americans. More specifically, the analysis included data on 63,810 women in the Nurse's Health Study and 41,622 men in the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study. This revealed that there was a link between a high consumption of grapefruit and oranges and melanoma.

"While our findings suggest that people who consume large amounts of whole grapefruit or orange juice may be at increased risk for melanoma, we need much more research before any concrete recommendations can be made," said Shaowei Wu, the lead study author, in a news release. "At this time, we don't advise that people cut back on citrus-but those who consume a lot of grapefruit and/or orange juice should be particularly careful to avoid prolonged sun exposure."

The researchers found that the association was strongest for grapefruit, followed by orange juice. With that said, consuming either grapefruit juice or whole oranges was not associated with melanoma risk. In addition, the scientists found that the association between eating whole grapefruit and melanoma was independent of age and lifestyle factors, such as physical activity, cigarette smoking, alcohol and coffee intake, and use of vitamin C supplements.

So what might cause the link? It's possible that the levels of furocoumarins may be higher in whole fruit than in processed juices. In addition, the significant effect of orange juice on melanoma risk may be explained by its consumption level, which is several times higher than any other citrus product.

"At this point in time, a public overreaction leading to avoidance of citrus products is to be avoided," said Marianne Berwick of the University of New Mexico, in a news release. "For people who would be considered at high risk, the best course might be to advise individuals to use multiple sources of fruit and juice in the diet and to use sun protection, particularly if one is sun sensitive. There is clearly a need for replication of the study findings in a different population prior to modifying current dietary advice to the public."

The findings are published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.

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