Current information on prostate cancer risk factors suggests that some cases might be prevented. One possible risk factor that can be changed is diet. You may be able to reduce your risk of prostate cancer by changing the way you eat.
Tomatoes (raw, cooked, or in tomato products such as sauces or ketchup), pink grapefruit, and watermelon are rich in lycopenes. These vitamin-like substances are antioxidants that help prevent damage to DNA and may help lower prostate cancer risk.
Taking vitamin or mineral supplements may affect your prostate cancer risk, but this is not yet clear. Some studies suggest that taking 50 milligrams (or 400 International Units) of vitamin E daily can lower risk. Although other studies found vitamin E to be of no benefit, reasonable doses of this vitamin have no significant side effects and are not expensive. Selenium, a mineral, may also lower risk. On the other hand, vitamin A supplements may actually increase prostate cancer risk. If you are unsure about whether you should take vitamins or other supplements, talk with your doctor.
The Selenium and Vitamin E Cancer Prevention Trial (SELECT) is a large clinical trial designed to determine if these 2 supplements can protect against prostate cancer. The study opened in 2001 and will enroll 32,000 men. Unfortunately, results of the study will probably not be available until 2013. Men interested in participating in this study may call the National Cancer Institute at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237) or visit the NCI website.
Some drugs may also help reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Researchers have been interested in determining whether a drug called finasteride (Proscar), which is already used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), can reduce prostate cancer risk. Finasteride prevents the prostate from being affected by certain androgens (male hormones). Androgens are known to be important in promoting the growth of normal and cancerous prostate cells and may play a part in the development of prostate cancers.