Eric J. Small, MD (University of California, SF) discussed the "Current Research State of CAM in Prostate Cancer". He suggested that 35-45 % of prostate cancer patients were currently using CAM therapies. Each was using between 3 and 4 different approaches simultaneously. In discussing soy protein/genistein, he pointed out that soy isoflavones clearly have anti-proliferative activity in prostate cancer. Epidemiological data has linked soy protein to reduced risk of prostate cancer. Methods of activity might include antioxidants, antiangiogenesis, and inhibition of tyrosine kinase. He also mentioned Vitamin E, Selenium and Lycopene as being active. The evidence came from a variety of studies including the ATBC (that infamous beta carotene and Finnish smokers trial) which demonstrated that 50 IU of Vitamin E produced reduced incidence (54%), and reduced mortality by 60%. (NEJM. 1994;330(15):1029-35) The Health Professionals Study also showed a 56% reduction in both metastatic disease and death. He suggested that selenium is best measured in the toenails and can be a marker of chronic selenium intake. He said that vitamin E, selenium, low fat intake, soy and lycopene probably play a role in inhibiting prostate carcinogenesis. Ann's NOTE: NCI has begun a prostate prevention trial SELECT which will use vitamin E/placebo vs. Selenium/placebo vs. Vitamin E/Selenium vs. Placebo/placebo in a long term intervention for high-risk men. Dr. Small suggested that PC-Spes in a prospective trial of this herbal supplement, yielded a drop in PSA for every patient in the study. 50% dropped to undectable ranges with a good result in all hormone-sensitive patients (31/32 dropped testosterone levels). (Small et al, J Clin Oncol.2000;18(21):359-603) and (Urology 2001;57(1):122-6.) When used as the third-line therapy, there was even some improvement on the bone scans. Very little toxicity was shown, but there was a small but real amount of thromboembolic events. Dr. Small believes there is clearly a role for PC-Spes in prostate treatment. However, PC-Spes has been voluntarily recalled in February 2002 due to findings of DES in 4 batches, along with several other chemicals. It is now being examined to see if any of these chemicals actually occur naturally in the herbs. Dr. Small believes that aside from the Indomethecin contamination, the other elements may be natural analogs. Remember we are NOT Doctors and have NO medical training. This site is like an Encylopedia - there are many pages, many links on many topics. Support our work with any size DONATION - see left side of any page - for how to donate. You can help raise awareness of CAM.