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New research provides solid evidence that medications and diet can go a long way in the prevention of prostate cancer.
Researchers from the University of Toronto reviewed published literature on prostate cancer to determine the progress made toward a prostate cancer-prevention strategy. They found drugs like 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (5ARIs) and selective estrogen receptor modifiers show great promise in reducing prostate cancer. For example, researchers found the 5ARI drug dutasteride (Avodart) has reduced cancer biopsies by 50 percent in men with benign prostatic hypertrophy.
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Other studies in the review showed strong evidence for the benefits of reducing dietary fat intake and for including selenium in the diet. Researchers report one study showed taking a selenium supplement reduced the risk of prostate cancer over 10 years by 49-percent. Studies on green tea for prevention continue to show conflicting results, while studies on soy and vitamin D are ongoing.
Researchers report studies suggest prostate cells actually turn cancerous in men in their 20s and 30s, but it takes years or decades for those cells to cause symptoms. They report, "Unless we intervene with men in their early 20s, prevention in the context of prostate cancer refers to a slowing of the growth of existing prostate cancer cells so that they never harm the host."
The future for prostate cancer prevention looks bright, write study authors. There are a number of studies currently underway that should provide more answers and more prevention strategies. Study authors write, "Probably no cancer is being investigated more thoroughly in the context of prevention as prostate cancer in 2007. Definitive answers to pivotal phase three trails will be available in the coming two to seven years."
This article was reported by Ivanhoe.com, which offers Medical Alerts by e-mail every day of the week. To subscribe, click on: http://www.ivanhoe.com/newsalert/.
SOURCE: CANCER, 2007;110
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