The Role of Natural Compounds in Cancer Chemoprevention

Abstract

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality globally, necessitating innovative strategies for prevention and management. Natural compounds derived from dietary and medicinal plants have gained increasing attention for their potential in cancer chemoprevention. These bioactive agents exert anti-carcinogenic effects through multiple mechanisms, including antioxidant activity, modulation of detoxification enzymes, regulation of inflammatory pathways, and induction of apoptosis in cancerous cells. This article reviews key natural compounds—such as curcumin, resveratrol, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and sulforaphane—and their mechanistic roles in inhibiting cancer initiation, promotion, and progression. The integration of these phytochemicals into dietary and pharmacological approaches presents a promising avenue for non-toxic, long-term cancer prevention strategies.