Cancer Studies

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Cancer Institute recognize that a growing body of research shows that fruits and vegetables are critical to promoting good health and that almost everyone needs to eat more to reach their daily needs.

For more information about the importance of fruits and vegetables in a healthy diet, visit fruitsandveggiesmatter.gov.

Cornell University Studies

A Cornell University study evaluated the effects of apple on breast cancer prevention in animals. Researchers demonstrated that apple extracts inhibited breast cancer growth, thus suggest that the consumption of whole apples may be an effective means of cancer protection in the rat model. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2005.

Researchers from Cornell University looked at the chemical composition of apple peels and identified 12 compounds called triterpenoids. Of those compounds discovered, most demonstrated potent anti-cancer activity, inhibiting the growth of human liver, breast, and colon cancer cells in laboratory cultures. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2007.

A Cornell University cell culture study evaluated the relationship between flavonoids in the apple peel and cancer risk. The researchers' findings suggest that these flavonoids could potentially inhibit the reproduction of colon cancer cells by as much as 43 percent. Nature, June 2000

Mayo Foundation

A 2001 Mayo Foundation study evaluated the effect of the flavonoid quercetin, found in apples, on cancer. The study found that quercetin could help prevent the growth of prostate cancer cells by turning off the gene involved in the development of these abnormal cells. Carcinogenesis, March 2001.

National Public Health Institute (Helsinki, Finland)

National Public Health Institute in Helsinki, Finland, conducted a long-term study that evaluated the effects of flavonoid intake. Researchers discovered a possible link between apple consumption and lower risk of lung cancer. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, September 2002.

University of Hawaii

At the Cancer Research Center of Hawaii, researchers investigated a link between the intake of the flavonoid quercetin, found in apples, and lung cancer. Their preliminary findings suggested that foods rich in quercetin may protect against certain forms of lung cancer. Journal of the National Cancer Institute, January 2001.