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Published on: June 23, 2015
Cranberries for preventing urinary tract infections.
1University of Stirling, Cancer Care Research Centre, Unit 1, Scion House, Innovation Park, Stirling, UK FK9 4LA. ruth.jepson@stir.ac.uk
Cranberry products may reduce urinary tract infections (UTIs) over 12 months, especially for women with recurrent UTIs. However, long-term adherence may be an issue due to side effects and dropouts.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Natural Products Research
- Evidence-Based Medicine
Background:
- Cranberries have a long history of use for preventing and treating urinary tract infections (UTIs).
- The efficacy of cranberry products for UTI prevention requires rigorous scientific assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of cranberry products in preventing UTIs across various susceptible populations.
- To synthesize evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on cranberry for UTI prevention.
Main Methods:
- A systematic search of multiple databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL) and industry sources was conducted up to January 2007.
- Included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs assessing cranberry products for UTI prevention.
- Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by two authors, with relative risks calculated where possible.
Main Results:
- Ten studies (1049 participants) were included, evaluating cranberry juice or tablets against placebo.
- Cranberry products demonstrated a significant reduction in UTI incidence over 12 months (RR 0.65).
- Effectiveness was most pronounced in women with recurrent UTIs, less certain in elderly or catheterized individuals. High dropout rates were noted.
Conclusions:
- Cranberry juice shows potential for reducing symptomatic UTIs in women with recurrent infections over 12 months.
- Evidence for efficacy in other populations is less conclusive.
- Further research is needed to determine optimal dosage, administration methods, and long-term acceptability.
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