The orthomolecular treatment of cancer. I. The role of ascorbic acid in host resistance

Natural resistance to neoplastic disease governs the incidence of clinical cancer and influences the individual's response to standard methods of treatment. Supportive measures, specifically designed to enhance the natural resistance of the host, should diminish cancer incidence, morbidity and mortality. The various factors involved in host resistance are briefly reviewed, and it is contended that the availability of ascorbic acid plays an important role in many of these physiological processes. The potential value of ascorbic acid in the supportive treatment of cancer is a matter for urgent study at many levels. It offers the promise of general improvement in the results of cancer management, including prophylaxis in general, supportive therapy when standard methods of treatment are being used, and palliative treatment in advanced terminal cancer.