Are anti-inflammatory foods associated with a protective effect for cutaneous melanoma?

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#anti-inflammatory-agents #antioxidants #diet #humans #melanoma

Are anti-inflammatory foods associated with a protective effect for cutaneous melanoma?

Fortes et al., 2020 | Eur J Cancer Prev | Systematic Review

Citation

Fortes Cristina. Are anti-inflammatory foods associated with a protective effect for cutaneous melanoma?. Eur J Cancer Prev. 2020-Sep;29(5):466-469. doi:10.1097/CEJ.0000000000000591

Abstract

The aim of this systematic narrative review is to answer the following research question: are anti-inflammatory foods or food components associated with a protective effect for melanoma development? Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses reporting guideline, a systematic review was conducted. All cohort studies (n = 18) so far on diet and cutaneous melanoma were reviewed. Out of the 18 cohort studies, seven investigated the role of coffee on melanoma and six studies found a protective effect. Food components considered as anti-inflammatory, such as vitamin D, vitamin A, folic acid, niacin, vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids, and carotenoids (β-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and lycopene), were not associated with a protective effect for melanoma. Other anti-inflammatory food items, such as tea, fruits, and vegetables, except for citrus fruits that were borderline associated with an increased risk, were not associated with cutaneous melanoma. In conclusion, the only anti-inflammatory food item that was consistently associated with a protective effect for cutaneous was coffee in particular caffeinated coffee.

Key Findings

In conclusion, the only anti-inflammatory food item that was consistently associated with a protective effect for cutaneous was coffee in particular caffeinated coffee.

Outcomes Measured

  • inflammatory markers

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size 18
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Antioxidants
  • Diet
  • Humans
  • Melanoma
  • Prognosis
  • Skin Neoplasms
  • Cutaneous Malignant Melanoma

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Systematic Review
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Systematic Review
  • Vertical: vitamin-a

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09