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06:48
An Orthotopic Murine Model of Human Prostate Cancer Metastasis
Published on: September 18, 2013
Can the Mediterranean diet prevent prostate cancer?
Catherine Itsiopoulos1, Allison Hodge, Mary Kaimakamis
1Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, St Vincent's Hospital, Victoria, Australia. ci@medstv.unimelb.edu.au
Molecular Nutrition & Food Research
|December 4, 2008
Summary
Dietary factors significantly influence prostate cancer risk. Foods rich in lycopene and selenium, along with the Mediterranean diet, may offer protection, while excess calcium intake is a probable cause.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Nutritional Science
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Prostate cancer is a leading global cancer in men.
- Environmental factors, not just genetics, significantly impact prostate cancer risk.
- Migrant studies show increased risk in low-to-high risk countries, highlighting environmental influences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current evidence on dietary and environmental risk factors for prostate cancer.
- To identify specific foods and nutrients that may protect against or cause prostate cancer.
- To evaluate the role of the Mediterranean diet in prostate cancer prevention.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of expert panel findings (World Cancer Research Fund, American Institute for Cancer Research).
- Inclusion of recent data on food-nutrient-prostate cancer links.
- Analysis of environmental factors and their association with prostate cancer risk.
Main Results:
- Lycopene, selenium, vitamin E, pulses, and soy foods show probable protective effects.
- Excess calcium intake is a probable cause of prostate cancer.
- The Mediterranean diet is associated with lower prostate cancer mortality and may confer protection.
Conclusions:
- Dietary modifications, particularly adopting a Mediterranean diet, may be a viable strategy for prostate cancer prevention.
- Specific nutrients like lycopene and selenium appear protective, while excess calcium intake should be avoided.
- Environmental and dietary factors play a crucial role in prostate cancer etiology.
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