In August 2019 researchers from China, USA and Singapore published the results of their study to assess the role of three dietary patterns in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma, namely the Alternative Healthy Eating Index-2010, Alternate Mediterranean Diet and Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH). Individuals involved in two large studies in the USA were prospectively assessed. Dietary information had been collected almost every 4 years via food frequency questionnaires. During a follow up period of up to 32 years, 160 individuals were diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma. Results showed that a greater adherence to the Alternative Healthy Eating Index-2010 may decrease the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma. There was a suggestive but non-significant association that a greater adherence to the Alternate Mediterranean Diet may reduce risk of hepatocellular carcinoma development, but no association was seen for the DASH diet. Future research is required to verify these findings and also to assess these associations in other populations.
Ma Y et al. Dietary patterns and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma among US men and women. Hepatology. 2019 Aug;70(2):577-586.