Phytoestrogens and prostate cancer: possible preventive role

Abstract

Phytoestrogens are biologically active plant compounds with both oestrogenic and antioestrogenic actions, and communities whose diets are rich in phytoestrogens have a lower incidence of prostate cancer. A 66-year-old man took phytoestrogen 160 mg (4 x 40-mg tablets) daily for one week before radical prostatectomy for moderately high-grade adenocarcinoma. The resected specimen showed prominent apoptosis, typical of a response to high-dose oestrogen therapy and suggestive of tumour regression. There were no adverse side effects. Studies of the effects of phytoestrogens in prostate cancer may be warranted.