Scientists to Investigate Potential of Grape Juice Compound in Preventing Bowel Cancer

New Delhi: UK scientists are set to begin a clinical trial to investigate whether resveratrol, a compound commonly found in grape juice and wine, can help prevent bowel cancer. Colorectal cancer, which affects the large bowel encompassing the colon and rectum, remains a significant health concern.

The research, led by the University of Leicester, will explore resveratrol’s potential cancer-preventive properties. Resveratrol is a natural compound found in foods like grapes, blueberries, raspberries, and peanuts. Although drinking red wine does not prevent cancer and is considered a risk factor, this study will focus on the effects of purified resveratrol.

Funded by Cancer Research UK, the trial will also examine other potential preventive treatments, including aspirin and metformin. Professor Karen Brown, an expert in Translational Cancer Research at the University of Leicester, noted that early detection of bowel cancer has become easier due to advanced screening methods. 

This trial, described by Brown as a “unique experiment,” aims to determine whether certain drugs can stop the growth of bowel polyps, which have the potential to develop into cancer. Brown added that the trial's results could have significant implications for preventing bowel cancer, especially in older individuals who are at greater risk.

The study plans to enroll 1,300 participants at 60 sites across England and Wales. Participants will undergo polyp removal and then receive one of several treatments. In the main part of the trial, participants will take either aspirin or a combination of aspirin and metformin daily over three years. In a sub-study, participants will receive either resveratrol or a placebo for one year.

Following the treatment period, all participants will have colonoscopies to check for new polyp growth and compare the size of any new polyps to those initially removed. If successful, any of the tested treatments could be recommended to individuals eligible for the NHS Bowel Screening Programme, potentially lowering the risk of polyp formation and, in turn, reducing the future incidence of bowel cancer.

The findings from this trial could mark a significant advancement in cancer prevention strategies.