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Dietary Carotenoids in Head and Neck Cancer-Molecular and Clinical Implications
1Department of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Clinical Physiology, Medical University of Lodz, Żeligowskiego 7/9, 90-752 Lodz, Poland.
Abstract:
Head and neck cancer (HNC) is one of the most common cancers in the world according to GLOBCAN. In 2018, it was reported that HNC accounts for approximately 3% of all human cancers (51,540 new cases) and is the cause of nearly 1.5% of all cancer deaths (10,030 deaths). Despite great advances in treatment, HNC is indicated as a leading cause of death worldwide. In addition to having a positive impact on general health, a diet rich in carotenoids can regulate stages in the course of carcinogenesis; indeed, strong epidemiological associations exist between dietary carotenoids and HNS, and it is presumed that diets with carotenoids can even reduce cancer risk. They have also been proposed as potential chemotherapeutic agents and substances used in chemoprevention of HNC. The present review discusses the links between dietary carotenoids and HNC. It examines the prospective anticancer effect of dietary carotenoids against intracellular cell signalling and mechanisms, oxidative stress regulation, as well as their impact on apoptosis, cell cycle progression, cell proliferation, angiogenesis, metastasis, and chemoprevention; it also provides an overview of the limited preclinical and clinical research published in this arena. Recent epidemiological, key opinion-forming systematic reviews, cross-sectional, longitudinal, prospective, and interventional studies based on in vitro and animal models of HNC also indicate that high carotenoid content obtained from daily supplementation has positive effects on the initiation, promotion, and progression of HNC. This article presents these results according to their increasing clinical credibility.
Insights
Dietary carotenoids show promise in reducing head and neck cancer (HNC) risk and progression. Supplementation may offer chemopreventive benefits by impacting key cancer mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Nutritional Science
- Carotenoid Research
Background:
- Head and neck cancer (HNC) represents a significant global health burden, accounting for approximately 3% of all cancer cases and 1.5% of cancer deaths.
- Despite treatment advancements, HNC remains a leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide.
- Carotenoids, found in a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, are being investigated for their potential role in cancer prevention and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the existing evidence on the relationship between dietary carotenoids and head and neck cancer (HNC).
- To examine the potential anticancer effects of carotenoids on various cellular mechanisms involved in carcinogenesis.
- To provide an overview of preclinical and clinical research concerning carotenoids and HNC.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of epidemiological studies, including cross-sectional, longitudinal, and prospective research.
- Analysis of in vitro and animal models investigating carotenoid effects on HNC.
- Evaluation of clinical trial data on carotenoid supplementation for HNC.
Main Results:
- Strong epidemiological associations suggest dietary carotenoids may reduce HNC risk.
- Carotenoids demonstrate potential anticancer effects by regulating intracellular signaling, oxidative stress, apoptosis, cell cycle, proliferation, angiogenesis, and metastasis.
- Preclinical and clinical studies indicate that carotenoid supplementation positively influences HNC initiation, promotion, and progression.
Conclusions:
- Dietary carotenoids hold significant potential as chemopreventive agents against head and neck cancer.
- Further research and clinical trials are warranted to fully elucidate the therapeutic and preventive roles of carotenoids in HNC management.
- Integrating carotenoid-rich diets or supplements may be a valuable strategy in combating HNC.
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