Several studies have reported that fruit and vegetable intake are linked to a reduced risk of prostate cancer, but the findings on advanced cancer are quite limited. A new report in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute has expanded our knowledge in this field.

Almost 30,000 men who had completed a food-frequency questionnaire were followed for an average of 4 years. There were 1330 cases of prostate cancer among them. Fruit and vegetable intake was not linked to an overall decreased risk of prostate cancer. However, there was a decreased risk of prostate cancer that had spread beyond the gland itself (stage III or IV tumors) in those men who had an increased intake of vegetables, mainly cruciferous vegetables , including broccoli and cauliflower. Their risk was cut by about half. By 'increased intake' the investigators meant eating broccoli or cauliflower more than once a week, in comparison to those who ate them less than once a month.

It must be admitted that people who eat a lot of fruit and veggies often smoke less, exercise more, and lead a healthier lifestyle than their fellow men. However, the findings are exciting, especially as these particular vegetables have been linked to a decreased risk of lung cancer . George HW Bush gave millions of kids his support when he said he hated broccoli. He should take notice of these findings!

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HealthandAge Blog