Selenium and Vitamin E Supplements for Prostate Cancer: Evidence or Embellishment?

The document reviewed the potential benefits and risks of selenium and vitamin E supplements in reducing prostate cancer risk. It found that benefits were mainly observed in individuals with low baseline levels of these nutrients, especially smokers. However, higher doses of vitamin E (≥100 IU) were associated with an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer in nonsmokers. The SELECT trial's dose of 400 IU/day was much higher than effective doses suggested by earlier studies, and dietary vitamin E seemed more beneficial than supplements. Recent cardiovascular trials also showed little benefit from vitamin E at the SELECT trial's dose. The document concluded that the evidence might be insufficient to support the widespread use of these supplements for prostate cancer prevention and emphasized the need for careful consideration in clinical settings.