New research reports that eating apples everyday could cut the risk of up to five different types of cancer. Scientists found those eating at least one a day were much less likely to get lung, bowel, mouth, digestive tract or breast tumours than people who rarely or never eat the popular fruit, reports the Daily Mail.
A review of over 40 previous studies, by experts at the University of Perugia in Italy, found the biggest benefits were seen in cancer of the stomach and oesophagus, where some data suggested apples nearly halved tumour risk.
Lung tumour rates among apple lovers were about 25 per cent lower while breast cancer cases were reduced by a fifth.
Researchers undertook the latest review to try and pinpoint whether apples, as one of the most widely consumed fruits in the world, play a significant role in tumour prevention.
The researchers said: 'Because of the peculiar chemical composition and the potential molecular mechanisms involved, it is possible some types of fruits and vegetables may be much more strongly associated with cancer risk than others.
'Our interest was attracted by apples as they are the most consumed fruit in European countries and a rich source of phytochemicals.'
In a report on the results they said: 'This provides convincing evidence of the protective ability of apples against lung, bowel, mouth, digestive tract and breast cancers.
'But more studies will be needed to clarify the effects in other anatomical sites.'
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