241042 Use of complementary and alternative medicine during active surveillance among prostate cancer patients

Tuesday, November 1, 2011: 2:50 PM

Miriam Al-Keliddar, MPH , Office of Cancer Complementary and Alternative Medicine, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD
Isis Mikhail, MD, MPH, DrPH , Office of Cancer Complementary and Alternative Medicine, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD
Background: Prostate Cancer (PCa) is the second leading cause of cancer death in men. Growth and spread of PCa varies. For patients with low-grade, localized prostate cancer, Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) use during active surveillance (AS) is an appealing option because it has few side effects and can be studied without interfering with conventional treatments. Aims: Review studies on use and effectiveness of CAMs among PCa men during AS period. Methods: Studies reviewed focused on the most commonly used CAMs including natural products (NPs) genistein, lycopene, and curcumin, and spiritual prayer. Results: Genistein, a phytoestrogen, has shown that it may reduce PSA levels and lengthen doubling time. Of seven studies reviewed, three found significant reduction in PSA levels, three did not find benefits, and one was inconclusive. Lycopene is a carotenoid and strong antioxidant. Three of five studies showed a reduction in PSA levels. Two studies and one review found statistically significant reduction in PSA levels. Curcumin is a phytopolyphenol and anti-inflammatory isolated from turmeric and may prevent the progression of PCa. One in vivo study and two in vitro studies found statistically significant support for use of curcumin to decrease PSA levels. One study found spirituality (prayer) to be negatively correlated with depression in PCa patients. Conclusion: Studies are needed to maximize statistical power; dose escalation; efficacy, and effects of elevated PSA levels on tumor growth and cancer progression.

Learning Areas:
Conduct evaluation related to programs, research, and other areas of practice

Learning Objectives:
1. Review studies on use of complementary and alternative therapies during the active surveillance or waiting period in prostate cancer patients 2. Assess findings on efficacy for each CAM 3. Examine study design and methodology of these studies

Keywords: Alternative Medicine/Therapies, Cancer

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I am qualified to present because I work on research initiatives and calls for grants in the area of complementary and alternative medicines for cancer at the National Cancer Institute.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.