Cancer of the prostate: influence of nutritional factors - Vitamins, antioxidants and trace elements

Cancer of the prostate and vitamins: Four vitamins have been studied, vitam ins A, E, D and C, the results of these studies have been contradictory. Vi tamin A and vitamin E would have a protective effect. Antioxidants: Carotenes have an activity similar to that of vitamin A. Beta -carotene was positively associated with risk of cancer of the prostate in one study while two others were unable to demonstrate any relationship. Lyc opene, the red color in fruits and vegetables, particularly tomatoes, would contribute to a lower risk of prostate cancer. Trace elements: Cadmium would increase the risk of cancer while selenium wo uld have a protective effect. However studies concerning selenium carry cer tain methodological biases.