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Health News Archive 709 - Precancerous Lesions
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Folic Acid Reduces Precancerous Lesion

Forty-three patients with untreated laryngeal leukoplakia in the glottic region received 5 mg of folic acid three times per day for six months. Complete regression of the lesions was seen in 28% of the patients, 44% had a partial response, and 28% had no change. No patient showed progression of the lesions to laryngeal cancer.

Comment by Alan Gaby, M.D.:

Laryngeal leukoplakia is a precancerous lesion that can progress to laryngeal cancer. Both laryngeal leukoplakia and cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx are associated with low plasma folate levels. Major risk factors for the development of these cancers are smoking and alcohol intake, both of which can cause folate deficiency. The results of the present study suggest that folic acid supplementation can reverse laryngeal leukoplakia and prevent its progression to laryngeal cancer.

Almadori G, et al. Pilot phase IIA study for evaluation of the efficacy of folic acid in the treatment of laryngeal leukoplakia. Cancer. 2006;107:328-336.

Reprinted with exclusive permission from The Townsend Letter, Sept 2007.

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