Authors:
Greenop KR, Miller M, Bailey HD, de Klerk NH, Attia J, Kellie SJ, Bower, C. Armstrong BK., Milne, E.
Authors notes:
Cancer Causes Control. 2015;26(6):871-9.
Keywords:
Brain tumors, Child, Folate, Micronutrients, Neoplasms, Processed meat, Vitamins
Abstract:
Purpose: The etiology of childhood brain tumors (CBT) is poorly understood, but dietary factors could be involved.
In this case-control study of CBT, the possible associations of childhood intake of dietary and supplemental folate, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 with the risk of CBT were investigated, along with various food groups.
Methods: Cases diagnosed between 2005 and 2010 were identified from 10 pediatric oncology centers in Australia and controls by nationwide random-digit dialling.
For study children of ages 3-14 years, diet in the year before diagnosis was assessed using food frequency questionnaires.
Results: Food and micronutrient data were available for 216 cases and 523 controls.
Folate intake was associated with a reduced risk of CBT overall and particularly low-grade gliomas.
Vitamin B6 and B12 intake was not associated with CBT risk, nor was processed meat.
Conclusions: High folate intake during childhood may reduce the risk of CBT.
This potentially important finding needs to be corroborated in other studies.
If replicated, these results could have important implications for public health recommendations regarding diet during childhood.