Numerous natural products have cancer preventing properties. Previously, ginseng has been reported, by these and other authors, to have preventative effects against cancer in laboratory mice and rats. To evaluate the preventative effect of ginseng against cancer, researchers conducted a prospective cohort study in Kwangwha-eup, Korea. Kwangwha is a major ginseng producing area in Korea.
In 1987, the study began with 905 pairs in a case-control design. The study was broadened between 1987 to 1992 to include 4,634 individuals over 40 years of age. Subjects were interviewed regarding factors such as alcohol consumption, smoking habits, occupation, history of diseases, etc. A detailed history of participant consumption of ginseng was taken. Approximately 70% of the participants consumed ginseng . Quantity, type, initial age of consumption and preparation method of ginseng intake were documented. However, usual dietary intake was not gathered.
Follow-up studies were carried out on the cohort to identify the development of cancer and other illnesses. Outcomes were based upon hospital records, death certificates, and insurance reports. During the five-year period, 355 participants died of various causes. There were 137 cancer cases with 79 deaths. There were 47 subjects who died of unknown causes.
Regression analysis determined that ginseng consumers had a significantly reduced risk (RR = 0.40, 95% CI:0.28-0.56) compared with nonconsumers against all types of cancer. And, those who consumed fresh ginseng extract had an RR = 0.31 (95% CI: 0.13-0.74). In a related case-control study, those individuals who consumed ginseng more frequently benefited
from an even greater protective effect. Socioeconomic status had no effect on ginseng intake. The researchers conclude that ginseng had nonorgan-specific preventative effects against cancer, but note that their follow-up time is not sufficient to obtain cancer incidence and mortality figures. Research and follow-up areee ongoing.
Taik-Koo Yun and Soo-Yong Choi, Non-organ Specific Cancer Prevention of Ginseng : A Prospective Study in Korea, International Journal of Epidemiology, 27:359-264, (June 1998)
[Correspondence: Dr Taik-Koo Yun, Laboratory of Experimental Pathology, 215-4 Gongneung-dong, Nowon-ku, Seoul, Korea]
- Source: Nutrition Research Newsletter1998.07.01
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