A review of incidence and mortality of colorectal, lung, liver, thyroid, and bladder cancers in Iran and compared to other countries

Spatial and temporal analysis of thyroid cancer incidence in Guilan Province, Northern Iran, 2009-2018

BACKGROUND

Thyroid cancer is one of the most common malignancies of the endocrine system, the fifth most common malignancy in women worldwide, and the second most common cancer in women over 50 in 2019. It is the sixth most common cancer in both sexes and the third most common cancer in women in Guilan province. This study was conducted to describe the geographic variation and investigate any changes in the trend of the thyroid cancer incidence rate.

METHODS

This study was conducted on the data of the Guilan University of Medical Sciences cancer registration system. The crude and age-standardized incidence rate was calculated per 100,000 person-years. Joinpoint regression analysis evaluated the time trends and annual percent changes (APC). The incidence rate was estimated separately for each city and high-risk areas were shown on the province map using GIS software.

RESULTS

1742 cases of thyroid cancer (83.7 % in women and 16.3 % in men) were registered in Guilan province from 2009 to 18. The incidence of thyroid cancer was 5.1-fold higher in women than men. The results of the joinpoint regression analysis showed that the age-standardized incidence rate of thyroid cancer in both sexes has increased significantly over ten years (APC: 26.4; 95 %CI: 22.5-30.4), (P-value < 0.001). In our study, Astaneh-ye Ashrafiyeh, Lahijan, and Langarud cities were identified as high-risk areas of the province for both sexes.

CONCLUSION

The trend of incidence of thyroid cancer in Guilan province is increasing. Also, a wide geographical variation was found in the incidence of thyroid cancer.

Colorectal Cancer Incidence in Iran Based on Sex, Age, and Geographical Regions: A Study of 2014-2017 and Projected Rates to 2025

BACKGROUND

While there has been extensive research on colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and its associated factors in Iran, a significant gap exists in studies predicting its future trends. Our study aimed to thoroughly report CRC incidence across Iran from 2014 to 2017, by sex, age, and geographical regions, and provide a projection for 2025.

METHODS

This retrospective study utilized data from the Iranian National Population-based Cancer Registry (INPCR). Patients with the International Classification of Diseases for Oncology, 3rd Edition (ICD-O-3) codes C18 to C21 were included. The age-standardized incidence rate (ASR), was calculated per 100000 individuals annually, and crude incidence rates were retrieved for various demographic groups and years.

RESULTS

Between 2014 and 2017, a total of 43580 new CRC cases (55.96% males) were registered. Men exhibited an ASR of 134.45, while women's ASR was 94.85. The highest ASRs were observed in Tehran, Qom, and Ilam (18.99, 18.26, and 18.06, respectively). Incidence rates surpassed 20 after age 50 for both genders, reaching their peak within the 80-84 age group. Adenocarcinoma was the most frequent histological type of CRC in nearly all provinces. Case numbers and ASRs are projected to continuously rise until 2025, with a predominance of male cases.

CONCLUSION

The anticipated increase in CRC incidence in Iran emphasizes the need for additional studies to better identify risk factors. Furthermore, implementing screening programs is recommended for individuals at a higher risk of CRC, including men, the elderly population, and those residing in regions with a notable prevalence of CRC.

Survival rate of thyroid cancer in the Asian countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis study

PURPOSE

Overall, thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine malignancy. This cancer is fifth most common cancer among adult women and the second most common cancer in women over 50 years old and it occurs in women 3 times more than men. The present systematic review and meta-analysis were designed with the aim of determining the 5-year survival rate of thyroid cancer in Asian countries in 2022.

METHODS

The current study is a systematic review and meta-analysis of thyroid cancer survival rates in Asian countries. Researchers in the study searched for articles published in six international databases: PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, Scopus, Google Scholar, ISI (Web of Knowledge), and ProQuest until July 03, 2022. A checklist (The Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Form) has been prepared in previous studies to evaluate the quality of articles.

RESULTS

In general, 38 articles were entered for the meta-analysis. The 5-year survival rate was 95.3%, with a 95% confidence interval of 93.5% to 96.6%. The year of study is a cause of variability in results of 5-year (Reg Coef = 0.145, P < 0.001). According to the results, an increased survival rate across the study period was observed. Human Development Index was a cause of variability in results of 5-year survival rates (Reg Coef = 12.420, P < 0.001). The results of Table 2 showed that women have 4% more 5-year survival rate than men (Hazard ratio: 1.05 CI: 95% 1.04-1.06)).

CONCLUSION

In general, the 5-year survival of thyroid cancer in Asian countries was higher than in European countries, but it is at a lower level than in the United States.

The effects of FTO gene rs9939609 polymorphism on the association between colorectal cancer and dietary intake

Background

FTO gene is associated with obesity, dietary intake, and the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). In this study, patients with colorectal cancer were assessed for the interactions between FTO gene polymorphisms and dietary intake.

Methods

This case-control study was carried out on 450 participants aged 35-70 years including 150 patients with colorectal cancer and 300 healthy controls. Blood samples were collected in order to extract DNA and genotyping of FTO gene for rs9939609 polymorphism. A validated 168-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and the Nutritionist-IV software were used to assess dietary intake.

Results

In the participants with the TT genotype of FTO rs9939609 polymorphism, CRC risk was significantly associated with higher intake of dietary fat (OR:1.87 CI95%:1.76-1.99, p = 0.04), vitamin B3 (OR:1.20 CI95%:1.08-1.65, p = 0.04), and vitamin C (OR:1.06 CI95%:1.03-1.15, p = 0.04) and lower intake of β-carotene (OR:0.98 CI95%:0.97-0.99, p = 0.03), vitamin E (OR:0.77 CI95%:0.62-0.95, p = 0.02), vitamin B1 (OR:0.15 CI95%:0.04-0.50, p < 0.01), and biotin (OR:0.72 CI95%:0.0.57-0.92, p = 0.01). No significant association was found between CRC and dietary intake in carriers of AA/AT genotypes after adjustments for the confounders.

Conclusion

CRC risk may be decreased by β-carotene, vitamins E, B1, and biotin only in those without the risk allele of the FTO gene. The association of CRC and diet may be influenced by FTO genotype. Further studies are warranted.

The Association Between Different Types of Dietary Carbohydrates and Colorectal Cancer: A Case-Control Study

Background

Several factors such as genetics and dietary intake are involved in the development of colorectal cancer (CRC). Higher intake of dietary carbohydrates may be associated with an increased risk of CRC. This study aimed to investigate the association between different types of dietary carbohydrates and CRC.

Methods

This hospital-based case–control study was carried out from June 2020 to May 2021 on 480 randomly selected participants including 160 CRC patients and 320 healthy controls aged 35–70 years in Firoozgar hospital, Tehran, Iran. Dietary intake was assessed using Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Nutritionist IV software was used to determine the intake of calorie and various forms of dietary carbohydrates including total carbohydrate, simple sugar, glucose, fructose, galactose, sucrose, lactose, and maltose.

Results

The average daily intake of calorie, carbohydrates, sugar, glucose, fructose, sucrose, and maltose were significantly higher among CRC cases compared to the controls (All P < 0.05). The logistic regression found significant associations between CRC with dietary intake of carbohydrates (OR = 1.009, CI 95%: 1.003–1.01, P = 0.002), sugar (OR = 1.02, CI 95%: 1.01–1.03, P < 0.001), glucose (OR = 1.06, CI 95%: 1.01–1.11, P = 0.009), fructose (OR = 1.31, CI 95%: 1.19–1.43, P < 0.001), sucrose (OR = 1.19, CI 95%: 1.12.−1.25, P < 0.001), maltose (OR = 9.03, CI 95%: 3.93–20.78, P < 0.001), galactose (OR = 1.31, CI 95%: 1.07–1.6, P = 0.008), and lactose (OR = 1.009, CI 95%: 1.01–1.18, P = 0.02). This association remained significant after adjustment for sex and age (except for galactose and lactose), and additional adjustment for sleep, tobacco, and alcohol level, and further adjustment for calorie intake and body mass index (BMI) (except for glucose).

Conclusions

A positive association was found between CRC and dietary intake of carbohydrates, sugar, fructose, sucrose, and maltose. Following a low-carbohydrate, low-sugar diet may help prevent CRC. Future longitudinal studies are warranted to confirm these findings.

Carica papaya L. Leaves: Deciphering Its Antioxidant Bioactives, Biological Activities, Innovative Products, and Safety Aspects

The prevalence of viral infections, cancer, and diabetes is increasing at an alarming rate around the world, and these diseases are now considered to be the most serious risks to human well-being in the modern period. There is a widespread practice in Asian countries of using papaya leaves (C. papaya L.) as herbal medicine, either alone or in combination with prescribed medications, to treat a variety of ailments. The importance of conducting the necessary descriptive studies in order to determine the safety of papaya leaf consumption is also emphasized in the context of their application in the healthcare sector. Electronic databases such as Google Scholar, Scopus, and PubMed were used to gather information on papaya leaves, their therapeutic potential, and clinical evidence-based studies. The literature was gathered from publications on papaya leaves, their therapeutic potential, and clinical evidence-based studies. The antidengue, anticancer, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammatory effects of papaya leaves discussed in this article are supported by evidence from preclinical, in vivo, in vitro, and clinical trial studies, as well as from other sources. Leaves have been investigated for their mechanism of action as well as their potential to be used in the development of novel herbal products for the health business. According to the reports gathered, only a small number of research demonstrated that leaf extract at high concentrations was hazardous to certain organs. The collective literature reviewed in this review provides insights into the use of papaya leaves as a cure for epidemic diseases, highlighting the phytochemical composition and pharmacological attributes of papaya leaves, as well as the results of various preclinical and clinical studies that have been conducted so far on the subject. The review clearly demonstrates the successful medical evidence for the use of papaya leaf extracts in the healthcare system as a supplemental herbal medication in a variety of clinical settings.

The Prevalence of Polypharmacy and Potential Drug-Drug Interactions among Iranian Cancer Patients: which Patients Were at Risk?

INTRODUCTION

Drug-Drug interactions (DDIs) are one of the considerable consequences of polypharmacy. Due to the influence of polypharmacy and drug interactions on cancer treatment and patients` health outcomes, the present study aimed to determine the prevalence of polypharmacy and potential DDIs among adult cancer patients in Kerman province, southeast of Iran.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 315 cancer patients who referred to Kerman city oncology clinics were assessed in 2018. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews and medical charts were reviewed. Polypharmacy was defined as the use of at least five drugs simultaneously. Potential DDIs were checked using the "Drugs.com" online database. A bivariable and a multivariable logistic regression were used to determine the associated factors of outcome variables, polypharmacy status and potential DDI in SPSS software version 23.

RESULTS

Of 315 cancer patients, 191 patients (60.6%; 95% CI:54.9, 66) used at least five drugs during chemotherapy courses. The prevalence of potential DDIs was 59.6% (n = 140, 95% CI: 53.6-66.0. Experience co-morbid diseases (OR:6.60; 95%CI: 3.82, 11.42; P-value ≤0.0001), and positive metastatic status (OR:2.80; 95%CI: 1.62, 4.82; P-value ≤0.0001) could predict the polypharmacy during chemotherapy courses. Patients who suffered gastrointestinal cancers (OR:5.55; 95%CI: 2.26, 13.62; P-value ≤0.0001) and the number of prescribed or Over The Counter (OTC) drugs (OR:1.29; 95%CI: 1.12, 1.48; P-value <0.0001) predicted the occurrence of potential DDIs among cancer patients.

CONCLUSION

Regarding the high prevalence of polypharmacy and potential drug interactions among Iranian cancer patients during chemotherapy courses, it is advisable for physicians, nurses, and pharmacists to be vigilant to improve prescribing patterns. In addition, with intensive monitoring, alternative treatment strategies can be replaced.

Gastrointestinal and Pancratohepatobiliary Cancers: A Comprehensive Review on Epidemiology and Risk Factors Worldwide

A significant number of cancer cases are afflicted by gastrointestinal cancers annually. Lifestyle and nutrition have a huge effect on gastrointestinal function, and unhealthy habits have become quite widespread in recent decades, culminating in the rapid growth of gastrointestinal cancers. The most prevalent cancers are lip and mouth cancer, esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, liver and bile duct cancer, pancreatic cancer, and colorectal cancer. Risk factors such as red meat consumption, alcohol consumption, tea, rice, viruses such as Helicobacter pylori and Ebstein Bar Virus (EBV), along with reduced physical activity, predispose the gastrointestinal tract to damage and cause cancer. According to the rapid increase of cancer incidence and late diagnosis of gastrointestinal malignancies, further epidemiological researches remain necessary in order to make appropriate population-based preventive policies. In this study, we reviewed clinical symptoms, risk factors, preventative measures, as well as incidence and mortality rates of gastrointestinal malignancies worldwide with focus on Iranian population.

Association of Urban Liveability with Cancer Incidence in Iran: A Nationwide Ecological Study

Background: Urban liveability is a multidimensional concept associated with many domains of human health. Objectives: This study aimed at investigating the association between urban liveability and cancer incidence in Iran. Methods: The data of provincial-level urban liveability were obtained from reliable sources. The data of cancer incidence were inquired from the population-based cancer registry of the Iranian Ministry of Health and Medical Education in 2016. Urban liveability scores were determined in all provinces of Iran by utilizing the Global Liveable City Index (GLCI) method. Negative binomial Poisson regression was used to examine the relationship between urban liveability and cancer incidence. Results: Provinces with a higher urban liveability had a higher likelihood of cancer incidence. Higher economic score was significantly associated with higher incidence in colorectal (IRR = 1.49, P = 0.005), liver (IRR = 1.48, P = 0.002), leukemia (IRR = 1.39, P = 0.005), lung (IRR = 1.39, P = 0.039), breast (IRR = 1.38, P = 0.011), and prostate cancers (IRR = 2.11, P < 0.001). Also, provinces with higher environmental friendliness and sustainability had significantly more stomach (IRR = 1.53, P = 0.004), colorectal (1.79, P < 0.001), lung (IRR = 1.43, P = 0.014), and prostate (IRR = 1.50, P = 0.032) cancer incidence. Provinces with higher political governance had significantly more breast cancer (IRR = 1.34, P = 0.002) and leukemia (IRR = 1.30, P = 0.016) incidence rates. Conclusions: Along with the development of urban liveability, the incidence of cancers is increasing in Iran. Cancer control strategies should be implemented especially in settings with higher urbanization.

Comparative evaluation of BMI-1 proto-oncogene expression in normal tissue, adenoma and papillary carcinoma of human thyroid in pathology samples

Objective

Papillary Thyroid carcinoma accounts for more than 60% of adult thyroid carcinomas. Finding a helpful marker is vital to determine the correct treatment approach. The present study was aimed to evaluate the expression of the B cell-specific Moloney murine leukemia virus integration site 1 (BMI-1) gene in papillary carcinoma, adenoma, and adjacent healthy thyroid tissues. Pathology blocks of thyroid tissues at the pathology department of patients who have undergone thyroid surgery between 2015 and 2019 were examined; papillary carcinoma, adenoma, and healthy tissues were selected and sectioned. Total RNA was extracted, and the relative expression level of the BMI-1 gene was examined using the Real-Time qPCR method.

Results

In the papillary and adenoma tissues, BMI-1 was overexpressed (1.047-fold and 1.042-fold) in comparison to healthy tissues (p < 0.05 for both comparisons). However, no statistically significant differences were observed between adenoma and papillary carcinoma tissues regarding BMI-1 gene expression. This study demonstrated a new biomarker for thyroid malignancies and found that the mRNA levels of the BMI-1 gene were higher in tumor tissues compared with healthy tissues. Further studies are needed to evaluate the BMI1 gene expression in other thyroid cancers.

The Radioprotective Effects of Melatonin and Nanoselenium on DNA Double-Strand Breaks in Peripheral Lymphocytes Caused by I-131

Background:

One of the treatment modalities for thyroid cancer and hyperthyroidism is radioiodine-131 (I-131) therapy. The use of this therapeutic modality is not completely safe and can lead to oxidative stress, eventually DNA damages. However, these radiation-induced damages can be reduced by antioxidants. This study aimed to investigate the potential radioprotective effects of melatonin and selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) on DNA double-stranded breaks (DSBs) caused by I-131.

Materials and Methods:

After obtaining informed consent, 6 ml blood was taken from each volunteer. The samples were divided into two general groups of control (without I-131) and with I-131. Each group was also divided into three subgroups, including without antioxidant, melatonin, and SeNPs. The samples of control group were incubated for 2 h after adding the antioxidants. The samples of I-131 group were first incubated for 1 h with the antioxidants and then the samples re-incubated for another 1 h after adding the I-131. Then, the samples were prepared for γH2AX assay.

Results:

The findings showed that after 1 h of incubation with 20 μCi I-131/2 mL, the DSB levels increased by 102.9% in comparison with the control group. In the I-131 group, there were significant reductions of the DSB levels after incubation with melatonin (P < 0.001) and SeNPs (P < 0.001) in comparison with the without antioxidant subgroup. Furthermore, the DSB levels at the melatonin + I-131 and the SeNPs + I-131 subgroups decreased to 38% and 30%, respectively, compared to the I-131 subgroup.

Conclusion:

According to the obtained findings, it can be concluded that the use of melatonin and SeNPs (as radioprotector agents) can reduce the DSB levels induced by I-131 in peripheral lymphocytes.

Incidence of Colorectal Cancer and Adenomatous Polyps After a Two-Step Screening in Isfahan Province, Iran in 2018

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to estimate the incidence of colorectal cancers in Iran. The results of this study are based on a screening program that is being implemented in Isfahan province.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In this study, about 137,000 people were screened for colorectal cancer and adenomatous polyps in 2 steps during the year 2018.

RESULTS

Based on the findings of this study, the incidence of adenomatous polyps was reported to be 389 (95% CI, 365-422) per 100,000 population. The incidence of adenomatous polyps was reported to be 483 (95% CI, 446-520) and 316 (95% CI, 286-346) in men and women, respectively (p < 0.001). Also, the incidence of colorectal cancer was reported to be 33 (95% CI, 23-42) per 100,000 population. The incidence of colorectal cancer in men and women was reported to be 41 (95% CI, 30-51) and 26 (95% CI, 17-34), respectively, indicating a statistically non-significant difference (p = 0.29).

CONCLUSION

Based on the result of this study, despite a low participation rate of the target population in the screening program, the incidence of adenomatous polyps and colorectal cancer is relatively high in the average-risk population.

Epidemiologic pattern of cancers in Iran; current knowledge and future perspective

Iran is a developing country facing demographic transition. Cancers are among the major non-communicable disorders with remarkable budern on the health-care governing systems. Extended life expectancy of Iranian population, change in living style, as well as promoted diagnostic and treatment methods have resulted into significant malignancies emergence and detection. Understanding the trend of this epidemiologic transition is required for proper allotment of resources. In this manuscript, overall epidemiologic pattern of cancers and their burden transition is reviewed. In addition, more concerning neoplasia (gastrointestinal, breast, thyroid, urologic, and respiratory system cancers) are reviewed in more details.

The Protective Role of Decorin in Hepatic Metastasis of Colorectal Carcinoma

Decorin, the prototype member of the small leucine-rich proteoglycan gene family of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, acts as a powerful tumor suppressor by inducing the p21^Waf1/Cip1 cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor, as well as through its ability to directly bind and block the action of several tyrosine kinase receptors. Our previous studies suggested that the lack of decorin promotes hepatic carcinogenesis in mice. Based on this, we set out to investigate whether excess decorin may protect against the liver metastases of colon carcinoma. We also analyzed the effect of decorin in tissue microarrays of human colon carcinoma liver metastasis and examined whether the tumor cells can directly influence the decorin production of myofibroblasts. In humans, low levels of decorin in the liver facilitated the development of colon carcinoma metastases in proportion with more aggressive phenotypes, indicating a possible antitumor action of the proteoglycan. In vitro, colon carcinoma cells inhibited decorin expression in LX2 hepatic stellate cells. Moreover, liver-targeted decorin delivery in mice effectively attenuated metastasis formation of colon cancer. Overexpressed decorin reduced the activity of multiple receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) including the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), an important player in colorectal cancer (CRC) pathogenesis. Downstream of that, we observed weakened signaling of ERK1/2, PLCγ, Akt/mTOR, STAT and c-Jun pathways, while p38 MAPK/MSK/CREB and AMPK were upregulated culminating in enhanced p53 function. In conclusion, decorin may effectively inhibit metastatic tumor formation in the liver.

Main Approaches to Enhance Radiosensitization in Cancer Cells by Nanoparticles: A Systematic Review

In recent years, high atomic number nanoparticles (NPs) have emerged as promising radio-enhancer agents for cancer radiation therapy due to their unique properties. Multi-disciplinary studies have demonstrated the potential of NPs-based radio-sensitizers to improve cancer therapy and tumor control at cellular and molecular levels. However, studies have shown that the dose enhancement effect of the NPs depends on the beam energy, NPs type, NPs size, NPs concentration, cell lines, and NPs delivery system. It has been believed that radiation dose enhancement of NPs is due to the three main mechanisms, but the results of some simulation studies failed to comply well with the experimental findings. Thus, this study aimed to quantitatively evaluate the physical, chemical, and biological factors of the NPs. An organized search of PubMed/Medline, Embase, ProQuest, Scopus, Cochrane and Google Scholar was performed. In total, 77 articles were thoroughly reviewed and analyzed. The studies investigated 44 different cell lines through 70 in-vitro and 4 in-vivo studies. A total of 32 different types of single or core-shell NPs in different sizes and concentrations have been used in the studies.

Glucosamine Conjugated Gadolinium (III) Oxide Nanoparticles as a Novel Targeted Contrast Agent for Cancer Diagnosis in MRI

BACKGROUND

Glucose transporter (Glut), a cellular transmembrane receptor, has a key role in the metabolism of cell glucose and is also associated with various human carcinomas.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we evaluated a magnetic resonance (MR) imaging contrast agent for tumor detection based on paramagnetic gadolinium oxide (Gd₂O₃) coated polycyclodextrin (PCD) and modified with glucose (Gd₂O₃@PCD-Glu) for the targeting of overexpressed glucose receptors.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In this experimental study, 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner was used to assess the specific interactions between Glut1-overexpressing tumor cells (MDA-MB-231) and Gd₂O₃@PCD-Glu NPs. Furthermore, the capacity of transporting Gd₂O₃@PCD-Glu NPs to tumor cells was evaluated.

RESULTS

It was found that the acquired MRI T₁ signal intensity of MDA-MB-231 cells that were treated with the Gd₂O₃@PCD-Glu NPs increased significantly. Based on the results obtained, Gd₂O₃@PCD-Glu NPs can be applied in targeting Glut1-overexpressing tumor cells in vivo, as well as an MRI-targeted tumor agent to enhance tumor diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Results have shown that glucose-shell of magnetic nanoparticles has a key role in diagnosing cancer cells of high metabolic activity.

Evaluation of demographic, pathologic, and clinical characteristics and overall survival of patients with colon cancer in Northern Iran (Mazandaran Province) during 2012-2019

AIM

The present study aimed at evaluating the demographic, pathological and clinical characteristics of patients with colon cancer and also the survival rate and its related factors.

BACKGROUND

Cancer is the most important barrier to increasing life expectancy in the world. Furthermore, colon cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer in Iran.

METHODS

In this descriptive-analytical study, 219 patients with colon cancer were investigated. Data were analyzed through descriptive and univariate methods using R software. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and log-rank test were used to evaluate the survival rate of the patients.

RESULTS

In the present study, 25% of patients were below 50 years of age. A family history of cancer was positive in 30% of the patients. According to the clinical symptoms of the patients, rectorrhagia was higher in patients with sigmoid tumor site, abdominal pain was higher in patients with transverse and ascending tumor sites, and anemia was higher in patients with ascending and caecum tumor sites (p< 0.05). The mean life expectancy of the patients was 53.71±2.07 months. Three-year, five-year and seven-year survival rates were 70, 49, and 37 %, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Half of the patients were diagnosed at advanced stage and the mean survival time at advanced stage was approximately four years. One-third of the patients had local recurrence. It is recommended that patients refer to specialists at specified time intervals for timely diagnosis of the disease and prevention of its recurrence. Providing effective training for people in order for them to acquire more knowledge, and performing screening tests will lead to early diagnosis and lower mortality.

The Effect of Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation on Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Serum Levels of Interleukin 6 and 8 in Women with Breast Cancer: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Clinical Trial

Background

To better evaluate the efficacy of CoQ10 on the inflammatory markers in breast cancer patients, we conducted a clinical study of patients with breast cancer undergoing tamoxifen therapy. CoQ10 serves as an antioxidant and inhibits oxidation caused by reactive oxygen species. The aim of the current study was to assess the effect of coenzyme Q10 supplementation on serum levels of interleukin 6, 8, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in patients with breast cancer undergoing tamoxifen therapy by a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial.

Methods

In the study, 30 breast cancer patients and 29 healthy subjects were randomized into four groups. Two groups of intervention received 100 mg CoQ10, and two control groups took placebo once a day for 2 months. Blood draws were obtained at baseline and at the end of the study. Serum levels of IL-6, IL-8 and VEGF were analyzed using ELISA kits.

Results

The data of the 59 participants were analyzed. Supplementation with CoQ10 demonstrated a significant decrease in IL-8 and IL-6 serum levels compared to placebo (P< 0.05). Although the downward trend was evident, CoQ10 supplementation did not reveal any significant effect on serum VEGF concentration. The group of patients who received supplements showed the most reduction in serum levels of cytokines among other groups.

Conclusion

CoQ10 supplementation could be effective in ameliorating inflammatory cytokine levels, thereby reducing the consequences of inflammation caused by breast cancer. To generalize the results, larger and longer intervention studies with higher safe doses are needed and should take account of possible costs and harms as well as benefits (registration number: IRCT2015042021874N1).