{"paper_id":"e4628104-79a8-46d6-b473-6a57709c242a","body_text":"Abstract\nIron has a pivotal role in homeostasis due to its participation in virtually all of the body’s oxidationreduction processes. However, iron can also be considered a double-edged weapon, as its excess may lead to an increased risk of developing cancer, presumably by the generation of reactive oxygen species, and its role as substrate to enzymes that participate in cell proliferation. Thus, iron might as well be considered a cofactor in tumour cell proliferation. In certain pathological conditions, such as haemochromatosis, hepatitis B and C virus infection, asbestosis and endometriosis, iron overload may increase the risk of cancer. By contrast, iron depletion could be considered a useful adjunct in antitumour therapy. 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