There is provided a method of treating cancer by treating the cancer cells with a lipophilic derivative of ascorbic acid. Also provided is a method of inhibiting the Ras pathway by administering a lipophilic derivative of ascorbic acid. A method of inducing apoptosis in cancer cells is also provided by treating cancer cells with a lipophilic derivative of ascorbic acid. A pharmaceutical composition for the treatment of cancer comprising a lipophilic derivative of ascorbic acid in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier is also provided
