Highlights
- •We review studies that have examined possible interactions between dietary phytochemicals and cancer prevention.
- •A diet rich in phytochemicals is associated with a reduction in the risk of cancer.
- •A cancer prevention strategy based on dietary intake of natural phytochemicals is a realistic option for the general population.
Abstract
Background
In recent years, natural compounds called “phytochemicals”, which are present in fruits,
vegetables, and plants, have received special attention due to their potential to
interfere with tumour formation and development. Many of these phytochemicals are
being used in chemoprevention strategies. However, the scientific evidence regarding
the modification of cancer risk continues to be debated.
Objective
The aim of this paper is to review the current scientific evidence and the most relevant
epidemiological studies regarding the consumption or use of phytochemicals and their
effects on the incidence of cancer.
Design
A search for relevant articles was conducted in EMBASE and PubMed-NCBI through to
May 2016 to identify potential interactions between the consumption or use of phytochemicals
and cancer risk.
Results
The use or consumption of carotenoids, such as lycopene, alpha-carotene, and betacarotene,
leads to a reduction in the risk of cancer, such as breast and prostate tumours. For
breast cancer, beta-carotene even reduces the risk of recurrence. The use or consumption
of soybean isoflavones has led to a reduction in the risk of lung, prostate, colon
(in women only), and breast cancers, although this has depended on menopausal and
oestrogen receptor status. The use or consumption of isothiocyanates and indole-3-carbinol
also seems to reduce the risk of cancer, such as breast, stomach, colorectal, or prostate
tumours.
Conclusions
The adoption of a diet rich in phytochemicals is associated with a modification of
cancer risk. However, the scientific data supporting its use come mainly from in vitro
and in vivo studies (especially in animal models). The epidemiological evidence is
inconclusive for many of these phytochemicals, so further studies are needed.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: August 18, 2016
Accepted:
August 7,
2016
Received in revised form:
July 30,
2016
Received:
June 30,
2016
Identification
Copyright
© 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.
