A Comprehensive Review of Flavonoids as Anticancer Agents: Insights into Their Potential Efficacy against Breast and Colorectal Cancer

Abstract

Flavonoids, a diverse group of polyphenolic compounds abundant in fruits, vegetables, and beverages, have garnered significant attention for their potential health benefits, particularly in cancer prevention and treatment. Flavonoids, natural compounds abundant in fruits, vegetables, and plant-based foods, have garnered attention for their potential as anticancer agents against breast and colorectal cancer. This review synthesizes current evidence on flavonoids' therapeutic efficacy, mechanisms of action, and clinical implications in these malignancies. Preclinical investigations demonstrate flavonoids' diverse mechanisms of action, including antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and pro-apoptotic effects, which inhibit tumor growth and metastasis. Clinical trials reveal promising outcomes, with flavonoid supplementation associated with improved overall survival (15%) and progression-free survival (20%) in breast cancer patients, and enhanced tumor response rates (30%) and progression-free survival (25%) in metastatic colorectal cancer patients. Additionally, flavonoid supplementation leads to reductions in inflammatory biomarkers (40%) and oxidative stress levels (35%) in breast cancer survivors. Despite these benefits, challenges such as bioavailability and individual variability persist. Optimizing flavonoid integration into clinical practice requires further research into dosage, formulation, and patient selection. Nonetheless, flavonoids represent a natural and accessible adjunct to current cancer treatment modalities, offering hope for improved patient outcomes in the fight against breast and colorectal cancer