Review: Effect of lycopene on prostate cancer progression
Researchers from the Queen’s University Belfast, in Northern Ireland reviewed the association between lycopene and the progression of prostate cancer.
First, the details.
- 8 studies were identified (5 failed to include a comparative control group).
And, the results.
- 6 studies reported that higher intake of lycopene intake was associated with lower PSA blood levels.
- PSA (prostate-specific antigen) is a protein in men’s blood that’s used to screen for and monitor the progress of prostate cancer.
- In 1 study, rates of cancer progression measured by bone scan were lower in those taking lycopene.
- Lycopene was associated with lower cancer-related symptoms (pain, urinary tract symptoms), and was well tolerated.
The bottom line?
Despite these positive results, the authors concluded, the evidence available to date is insufficient to draw a firm conclusion with respect to lycopene supplementation in prostate cancer patients.â€
They recommended more and larger studies.
1/12/10 19:30 JR
