A new trial is set to investigate whether a chemical commonly found in red grapes and products made from them, such as wine and juice, can play a role in preventing bowel cancer. The study, named Colo-Prevent, has been described as a groundbreaking experiment with potentially significant implications for individuals at risk of the disease. In addition to exploring the effects of the chemical found in red grapes, researchers will also examine other potential treatments for preventing bowel cancer, including aspirin and metformin, a medication used to manage blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Led by Professor Karen Brown, a specialist in translational cancer research at the University of Leicester, the study aims to involve approximately 1,300 patients across 60 locations in England and Wales by the beginning of 2028. The trial will utilise purified resveratrol, a natural compound primarily present in red grapes, as well as in blueberries, raspberries, and peanuts. Prof Brown’s prior research has indicated that purified resveratrol can impede the growth of cancer cells in small doses, prompting the investigation into its potential preventive properties for bowel cancer.
The trial will specifically target individuals aged between 50 and 73 who have participated in the NHS bowel screening programme and have been identified to have bowel polyps, which are benign growths that can evolve into cancer if left untreated. Participants will undergo the removal of polyps and will be administered either aspirin alone or a combination of aspirin and metformin for the main trial. Additionally, some individuals will receive purified resveratrol or a placebo as part of a sub-study within the trial.
All patients involved in the trial will undergo a colonoscopy following the medication regimen to assess if the polyps have regrown. Bowel cancer ranks as the fourth most prevalent cancer in the UK, with an estimated 44,000 individuals diagnosed annually, equating to around 120 cases each day. While the exact cause of bowel cancer remains unclear, adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, reduced alcohol consumption, and avoiding smoking are recommended by the NHS to minimise the risk of developing the disease.
Dr Iain Foulkes, the executive director of research and innovation at Cancer Research UK, which is funding the trial, expressed optimism about the potential of this research to pave the way for a new era of preventive cancer strategies through cutting-edge science. David Trusler, a participant in the study, emphasised his personal motivation for joining the trial, highlighting a family history of bowel cancer and the desire to contribute to advancements in cancer treatment for future generations.
Prof Brown underscored the importance of enhancing current efforts in bowel cancer prevention by embracing therapeutic prevention approaches that leverage evolving insights into cancer biology to identify drugs capable of halting cancer progression in its early stages. The Colo-Prevent trial represents a significant step towards advancing preventive measures for bowel cancer and redefining the landscape of cancer prevention strategies to offer more individuals the opportunity for improved quality of life free from cancer-related concerns.