Critical review of complementary therapies for prostate cancer.
Despite its prominence as the most frequently diagnosed solid tumor among men in the United States, relatively little is known about the etiology of prostate cancer. Furthermore, research into treatment strategies for prostate cancer continues to lag behind research for the other most common cancers. At the same time, however, the popularity of complementary therapies among prostate cancer patients continues to grow. In this article, we provide a critical review of the most recent evidence for dietary modifications, food supplements, and herbs in prostate cancer prevention and treatment. Despite encouraging data for some of these interventions, even the strongest proponents of complementary therapy agree that only randomized controlled trials can provide sufficient evidence on which to create universal guidelines. However, such trials are highly complex and expensive, and they require lengthy follow-up. Until such trials are completed, an opportunity exists for health care professionals to improve their knowledge and understanding of the current evidence for or against complementary therapy in prostate cancer.
Wilkinson
Simon
S
Midwest Prostate and Urology Health Center, Weiss Memorial Hospital, Chicago, IL 60640, USA. simonmwilkinson@hotmail.com
Chodak
Gerald W
GW
D000972:Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000529:Complementary Therapies; D004041:Dietary Fats; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D004365:Drugs, Chinese Herbal; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008517:Phytotherapy / Q000379:methods*; D010936:Plant Extracts / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011471:Prostatic Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012643:Selenium / Q000627:therapeutic use; D014815:Vitamins / Q000627:therapeutic use
D000972:Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic; D004041:Dietary Fats; D004365:Drugs, Chinese Herbal; D010936:Plant Extracts; D014815:Vitamins; C114209:herbal preparation PC-SPES; D012643:Selenium