Ir J Med Sci. 2026 Jun 23. doi: 10.1007/s11845-026-04510-z. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Oxidative stress and antioxidant balance play critical roles in carcinogenesis, particularly among older adults who experience increased oxidative burden. This study explored the association between the composite dietary antioxidant index (CDAI) and cancer prevalence in the elderly.
METHODS: Data from 4,907 elderly participants were analyzed and categorized into quartiles (Q1-Q4) according to CDAI. Logistic regression models estimated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for cancer across quartiles, adjusting for demographic and clinical covariates. Subgroup analyses were performed to evaluate the consistency across subgroups.
RESULTS: Participants with higher CDAI levels were more likely to be male, educated, and have lower diabetes prevalence. The prevalence of cancer increased across CDAI quartiles (19.6% in Q1 to 27.5% in Q4, P < 0.001). In fully adjusted models, Q4 had higher odds of cancer (OR = 1.26, 95% CI 1.02-1.54, P = 0.029). Subgroup analyses indicated stronger associations among women and those with diabetes.
CONCLUSIONS: Unexpectedly, higher CDAI was associated with a greater prevalence of cancer among elderly individuals, suggesting complex, context-dependent effects of dietary antioxidants on cancer prevalence.
PMID:42334769 | DOI:10.1007/s11845-026-04510-z
