Purpose

There is growing evidence of the role of specific dietary factors in cancer prevention.

In a large, contemporary group of young people (the ALSPAC cohort), now at the

cusp of adulthood, this study will identify a dietary pattern characterised by these

cancer-protective components and study the antecedent determinants of these

eating habits. This will include the role of socio-economic status, parental attitudes

and behaviours and specific genetic traits, primarily relating to taste perception. It

will also examine the extent of tracking of dietary habits throughout childhood and

adolescence to adulthood. Together this data will inform public health strategies to

encourage the early adoption of a cancer-protective diet.