Cancer patients report widespread use of antioxidant supplements during chemotherapy despite recommendations from national cancer organizations that supplements not be used during treatment.

It has been thought that they may block the therapeutic effects of chemotherapy. However some laboratory-based studies seem to show that antioxidants may actually enhance the effects of chemotherapy drugs.

Dr. Christine Ambrosone's team is investigating whether using antioxidant supplements during chemotherapy has any impact on the side effects experienced or the disease-free survival of cancer patients. The research is being conducted simultaneously with an ongoing Phase III clinical trial sponsored by Southwest Oncology Group that is examining a new combination of chemotherapy agents for patients being treated for breast cancer.

RPCI scientists expect to enroll 3,000 women on this ancillary study which will consist of a collection of questionnaire data regarding the use of antioxidant supplements and other lifestyle factors. DNA will be analyzed and genetic variability will be evaluated.