No convincing evidence on supplements to reduce prostate cancer risks

There is still no sufficient or strong evidence on dietary or nutritional supplements in the prevention of prostate cancer with recent studies still showing scant proof that vitamins like selenium, Vitamins C or E help in reducing prostate tumours.

“There is no evidence for the efficacy of micronutrients,” said Bernd Schmitz-Drager (DE) in his lecture on prostate cancer prevention during opening session of the 9th Meeting of the EAU Section of Oncological Urology (ESOU) which opened today in Hamburg, Germany.

“On the other hand we do have data from meta-analysis studies that there are some benefits on so-called Mediterranean diet, on lycopene (tomatoes) , phytoestrogenes, which are potential candidates,” he added.

Regarding 5alpha reductase inhibitors, toremifene, NSAIDS and statins, Schmitz-Drager said these have “likely potential benefits,“ although more studies are needed.

Schmitz-Drager said that rather organ-specific prevention strategies it would be advisable to have a "...more holistic approach" such as modifying lifestyle habits. "Some studies have shown that obesity do play a role in prostate cancer risks," he explained.

The ESOU meeting gathered around 700 participants from across Europe with the initial session tackling major issues in prostate cancer such as diagnosis, screening, hormonal therapies, among others, The meeting’s scientific programme features debates, state-of-the-art lectures and discussions on uro-oncology issues.