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What is the prostate?
The prostate gland is a walnut-shaped organ below the bladder that surrounds the urethra, which is the passage for urine. Part of the male genital tract, the prostate, secretes the fluid and chemical nutrients needed to allow sperm cells to survive in semen.
What is prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer is the most often diagnosed cancer in men and the second leading cause of cancer death. Although more cases of prostate cancer are found now than in past decades, most are discovered early enough to assure complete cure. The improved survival rate is in part because of the prostate specific antigen (PSA) lab test and ongoing efforts to screen men as part of routine check-ups.
Be aware that herbs and supplements are not strictly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Do not assume if a product is considered "natural" that it is harmless. Many substances do not have sound science behind them to prove their safety or how well they work. Manufacturers may not be giving you what you think you are getting, or the way the substance is processed may be unhealthy or unsafe.
With many of these products, doctors do not know enough about them. Herbs and supplements may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medications or can worsen your health conditions. Consider that some supplements, such as vitamin A, may be unsafe when taken in mega doses.
It is strongly advised that you talk to your doctor before taking any supplement or herb. If you are taking an herb or supplement and notice any unusual symptoms, stop taking the substance immediately and talk to your doctor.
Cancer is a very serious and life-threatening disease that must be treated by a doctor. Do not rely on supplements or herbs in treating your illness, and do not take them without first consulting your health care provider. It is highly unlikely that your cancer will be treated effectively by such substances.
| Herb or supplement |
Claims |
Possible Dangers, Side Effects and Interactions |
What the experts say |
| Selenium |
Can help prevent prostate cancer. |
May interfere with the cancer drug bleomycin. High blood levels of selenium (greater than 1000 mcg a day) can cause a condition called selenosis. Symptoms of selenosis include gastrointestinal problems, hair loss, white blotchy nails, garlic breath odor, fatigue, irritability and mild nerve damage |
The SELECT study, a long-term study sponsored by National Institutes of Health, is looking at whether taking selenium as a supplement and/or vitamin E can lower the risk of prostate cancer in healthy men. Some evidence suggests that these two nutrients may help prevent prostate cancer.
One large study of 1,312 people found that people who did not take selenium supplements were more likely to develop prostate cancer. Do not take this without talking with your doctor.
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| PC-SPEC (contains saw palmetto along with six other herbs) |
May treat cancer. |
It can alter the results of a screening test that detects prostate cancer, obscuring the cancer. This could mean the cancer won't be caught until it is in the incurable stage. The Food and Drug Administration issued a warning because PC-SPEC actually contains warfarin, a drug that thins the blood. This may cause internal bleeding. Some over-the-counter pain relievers may increase the risk of bleeding. May interact with finasteride. Stomach upset, vomiting, weakness, dizziness and liver inflammation have been reported. |
Do not take this. |
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External Sources
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This article was reviewed and updated
June 2007.
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