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!