title: Recent research on the etiology of esophageal cancer in China.
abstract: China could be expected to offer good opportunities for the investigation of esophageal cancer since it has both high and low incidence areas. However, it seems impossible to attribute the induction of esophageal cancer to one particular substance--it rather seems to be caused by a variety of factors. To the authors' opinion, esophageal cancer may originate from exposure to N-nitroso compounds or mycotoxins. Lack of certain trace elements or essential vitamins may also play a role. Contrary to France, which also has high incidence areas of esophageal cancer, excessive alcohol consumption is of no importance in China. It is not clear whether genetic factors can be discussed.
mesh_terms: D002471:Cell Transformation, Neoplastic / Q000139:chemically induced; D002681:China; D004938:Esophageal Neoplasms / Q000209:etiology* / Q000235:genetics; D005247:Feeding Behavior; D005260:Female; D005516:Food Microbiology; D005848:Geotrichum / Q000302:isolation & purification; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008982:Molybdenum / Q000032:analysis; D009183:Mycotoxins / Q000009:adverse effects*; D009602:Nitrosamines / Q000009:adverse effects*; D009748:Nutrition Disorders / Q000150:complications; D010936:Plant Extracts / Q000009:adverse effects; D012257:Riboflavin Deficiency / Q000150:complications; D012907:Smoking; D014131:Trace Elements / Q000032:analysis*; D014675:Vegetables / Q000009:adverse effects
chemical_list: D009183:Mycotoxins; D009602:Nitrosamines; D010936:Plant Extracts; D014131:Trace Elements; D008982:Molybdenum