Serum alpha-tocopherol and apolipoprotein levels in Tunisian lung cancer patients

Vitamin E status was evaluated in 54 Tunisian patients with lung cancer and in an age-matched control group. The mean serum alpha-tocopherol level was significantly lower in the cases than in the controls. Serum alpha- tocopherol levels were positively correlated with serum cholesterol and apolipoprotein levels. Our findings support the hypothesis that the oxidative stress imposed on cells by the cancerous process is associated with an increased consumption of vitamin E.