Role of polyphenols in the prevention and treatment of non-metastatic breast cancer

Abstract

Breast cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed neoplasms in women worldwide and represents the second leading cause of death in this population group. Primary prevention is essential for the early detection of breast cancer with emphasis on annual screening to provide timely treatment, based on a multidisciplinary management that includes the areas of surgery, oncology, pathology and nutrition. To study the anticarcinogenic role of polyphenols in non-metastatic breast cancer, a literature search was performed using the Medline, HINARI, ARDI, and SciELO databases. Original articles in English and Spanish from primary and secondary sources were selected, reviewed and analyzed. Polyphenols are dietary compounds that have gained importance in recent years for their anticarcinogenic role in the prevention and treatment of non-metastatic breast cancer. They include curcumin, resveratrol, quercetin, epigallocatechin gallate and luteolin. Polyphenols possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticarcinogenic properties. Their introduction as a preventive measure could reduce the incidence of breast cancer and, in those cases with a confirmed diagnosis, improve the effect of chemotherapeutic treatment .