First, it seemed eating lycopene-rich tomatoes offered protection against prostate cancer. Now it seems this is not so true. In fact, researchers have found an association between an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer and beta carotene, an antioxidant related to lycopene.Lycopene seemed for a short time to be a quick and easy fix for men trying to lower their prostate cancer risk. Yet studies are failing to show any significant differences in blood lycopene levels between men who develop the disease and those who do not.
The largest study to yield these results investigated the role of blood levels of lycopene and other antioxidants in the prevention of prostate cancer. It was an unexpected turn of events that led researchers to the link between the most aggressive cancers and antioxidants found in many vegetables. While the observation may be due to chance, beta carotene is known to increase risk of lung cancer and heart disease in smokers and may be worth a bit more study.
No one is suggesting people stop eating their veggies. Experts are cautioning against taking beta carotene supplements, however.
1. Though I linked to this study earlier last week,
http://www.thecancerblog.com/2007/05/29/tomatoes-can-help-send-cancer-packing/
primarily because the blogger, I felt, was not guarded enough in the analysis, I don't believe we should throw out the baby with the bathwater because of this one study.
An analysis of the study method is always warranted.
The subjects enrolled in the current study were initially screened through a PSA test and digital rectal exam, and were then followed through routine exams and screenings until first occurrence of prostate cancer, death or the end of the trial in 2001. Is it possible that those who were at high risk for prostate cancer indicated by a high PSA count might take beta-carotene and or lycopene supplement in an effort to reduce the risk of the disease?” If that is true, a higher risk might lead to consumption of high beta-carotene in the subjects, not vice versa.
Another thing that needs to be considered is that the blood test for carotenoids was conducted only once at the beginning of the study. The data derived from the single test could not show the subjects’ dietary habits before nor after they enrolled in the study, This means that the results of the current study may not be applicable to people who use lycopene rich vegetables such as tomatoes or tomato based foods for a long period.
http://foodconsumer.org/7777/8888/C_ancer_31/052106062007_Tomatoes_can_t_prevent_prostate_cancer.shtml
So, for me, it's still up in the air. But, there are clear associations with other risk factors. I'd hate to see an overweight, sedentary, meat eater, take carotenoids to avoid prostate cancer.
Posted at 10:32AM on Jun 3rd 2007 by hchcec