Can Prostate Cancer Be Prevented?

Because it is not clear what causes prostate cancer, there is no guarantee of prevention. However, experts believe that you can reduce your risk for many types of cancer by:

• Not smoking

• Eating a low-fat, high-fiber diet

• Getting plenty of exercise

Recent nutritional studies have suggested that:

• Men who eat large amounts of green leafy vegetables may develop prostate cancer less frequently.

• Men who eat tomato-based foods at least twice a week may be at lower risk for developing prostate cancer.

Studies into diet and its relationship to prostate cancer are inconclusive. However, a substance called lycopene, an antioxidant found in some fruits and vegetables, is being studied because it may offer some protection against prostate cancer. Scientists think antioxidants help protect protein in cells from damage. Vitamin C and vitamin E are antioxidants.

In July 2001, the largest prostate cancer prevention trial began enrolling participants. The trial's name is SELECT, which stands for Selenium and Vitamin E Cancer Prevention Trial. The purpose is to determine whether these two dietary supplements can protect against prostate cancer. For more information on this trial, call the National Cancer Institute's Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4CANCER, or visit their Web site. www.nci.nih.gov