Beta carotene and prostate cancer

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A new study suggests that eating lycopene-rich tomatoes offers no

protection against prostate cancer, contrary to the findings of some

past studies. In fact, the researchers found an association between

beta carotene, an antioxidant related to lycopene, and an increased

risk of aggressive prostate cancer.

In a written statement, Dr. Ulrike s of the Fred Hutchinson

Cancer Research Center in Seattle said the finding is " disappointing,

since lycopene might have offered a simple and inexpensive way to

lower prostate cancer risk for men concerned about this common

disease. Unfortunately, this easy answer just does not work. "

It's thought that antioxidants may help shield against cancer and

heart disease by neutralizing harmful molecules known as oxygen free

radicals. But studies to date on the role of lycopene in prostate

cancer have been mixed; some suggest a protective effect, while others

yield contradictory or inconclusive results.

The current study involved 28,243 men between the ages of 55 and 74

with no history of prostate cancer who were enrolled in the Prostate,

Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian (PLCO) Cancer Screening Trial. As part

of the trial, the men provided a blood sample and completed a

questionnaire related to their health, diet and lifestyle.

During follow-up of up to 8 years, 692 men developed prostate cancer,

and were matched to 844 men who were free of prostate cancer.

Data analysis failed to show any significant difference in blood

lycopene levels between men who developed the disease and those who

did not. " Our results do not offer support for the benefits of

lycopene against prostate cancer, " s said.

The study, published in the current issue of Cancer Epidemiology,

Biomarkers & Prevention, is one of the largest to evaluate the role of

blood levels of lycopene and similar antioxidants in preventing

prostate cancer.

Unexpectedly, the investigators noted an association between an

increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer -- defined as disease

that has spread beyond the prostate -- and higher intake of beta

carotene, another antioxidant found in many vegetables and commonly

used as a dietary supplement.

Although this observation " may be due to chance, " s added, " beta

carotene is already known to increase the risk of lung cancer and

cardiovascular disease in smokers. "

" While it would be counter-productive to advise people against eating

carrots and leafy vegetables, I would say to be cautious about taking

beta carotene supplements, particularly at high doses, and consult a

physician, " s said.

Funding for this study was provided through the

National Cancer Institute and the U.S.

Department of Health and Human Services.

SOURCE: Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention, May 2007.