Chondroitin is a major component of cartilage, the connective tissue that cushions the joints. Chondroitin is produced by the body, and it helps maintain the health of cartilage in several ways: by absorbing fluids into the connective tissue, blocking enzymes that can damage and break down cartilage, and providing materials for the body to make new cartilage. Chondroitin supplements are popular as a treatment for osteoarthritis, and they are available either alone or, in most cases, in combination with glucosamine. At least two studies have revealed concern that chondroitin should not be used by men who have prostate cancer. In one study, researchers found a higher concentration of chondroitin in the prostate tissue of men who had cancer than in the tissue of men without prostate cancer. (De Klerk 1984)
In another study, investigators observed that a higher concentration of chondroitin in the tissue surrounding prostate tumors in men who had undergone radical prostatectomy seemed to predict a higher rate of recurrence of the cancer. (Ricciardelli 1999) A 2004 study found that men with BPH had a higher concentration of chondroitin than men without the disease. (Cardoso 2004) Even though no study has implicated chondroitin as a cause of prostate cancer, there seems no reason to take this supplement, given glucosamine alone is an effective natural treatment for osteoarthritis and the relationship that has been found thus far between chondroitin and prostate cancer.
See also
Top Supplements for Prostatitis
Top Supplements for Prostate Cancer
Top Supplements for Erectile Dysfunction
Top Supplements for ED and Sexual Health
Top Supplements for Men’s Health
Reference
Cardoso LE et al. Increased and localized accumulation of chondroitin sulphate proteoglycans in the hyperplastic human prostate. BJU Int 2004 Mar; 93(4): 532-38
De Klerk D et al. Glycosaminoglycans of human prostatic cancer. J Urol 1984; 131:1008-12
