Vitamin E, selenium and soy in combination does not prevent prostate cancer

LINTHICUM, MD, 30 april 2009–The combination therapy of vitamin E, selenium and soy does not prevent the progression from high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN) to prostate cancer, according to the new research presented at the 104th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Urological Association (AUA). The study confirms the findings of the Selenium and Vitamin E Cancer Prevention Trial (SELECT) and expands knowledge of the affect soy has on prostate cancer.

Canadian researchers divided 303 men, with an average age of 62, into two randomized groups. All participants had HGPIN, a precursor to invasive prostate cancer, as confirmed by a central pathology review in at least one of two biopsies within 18 months prior to randomization. The combination treatment was administered daily for three years with follow-up prostate biopsies at six, 12, 24 and 36 months. Supplementation was discontinued if a man developed invasive disease. Study results show that 26.4 percent of patients developed invasive prostate cancer. Baseline, age, weight and testosterone levels did not predict the development of cancer.

"Unfortunately, as this study shows, we have yet to find a dietary supplement that will reliably prevent prostate cancer. The results of this study support the findings of the SELECT trial which also demonstrated no benefit using Vitamin E and selenium," said Christopher Amling, MD, an AUA spokesman. "These studies highlight the importance of conducting randomized trials of these agents since many of these supplements are promoted falsely to the general public as having beneficial effects on cancer prevention and progression."

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NOTE TO REPORTERS: Experts are available to discuss this study outside normal briefing times. To arrange an interview with an expert, please contact the AUA Communications Office at the number above or e-mail Lacey Dean at LDean@AUAnet.org.