A new review titled “Chemopreventive effects of native Brazilian plants in gastric cancer: a review of the last 25 years” has been published in the journal Oncoscience.

The study analyzed scientific studies published over the past 25 years that examined how native Brazilian plants can help prevent stomach cancer.

Their results suggest that several plant species contain bioactive compounds with potential anti-cancer properties.

By summarizing and analyzing the results of this study, the authors aim to highlight the little-studied value of Brazil's biodiversity for finding new strategies for cancer prevention. Gastric cancer remains one of the deadliest forms of cancer worldwide and is often diagnosed in advanced stages. The review notes that many factors contribute to the development of this disease, including poor diet, infections and genetics.

However, evidence suggests that regular consumption of fruits and vegetables rich in natural compounds such as polyphenols and flavonoids can help reduce the risk.

The review literature suggests that Brazilian native plants may have a similar protective effect. The study covers ten native species including açaí, cacao, guava, pitanga, jamba and physalis. Extracts from these plants showed signs of reducing cancer cell growth, initiating cell death and slowing disease progression.

Although the exact biological mechanisms remain unclear in many cases, some studies have reported a reduction in inflammation and disruption of cancer-related signaling.

These results point to the possibility that natural plant substances may contribute to efforts to prevent or treat cancer.