In the quest for better cancer prevention and treatment, scientists are increasingly turning to nature’s vast pharmacopoeia. Babatunde Oluwafemi Adetuyi, a research assistant at the Molecular Drug Metabolism and Toxicology Laboratory of the University of Ibadan, is at the forefront of this exploration. In this interview with The Guardian’s Chukwuma Muanya, Adetuyi delves into the science of chemoprevention, the power of natural compounds, and the role of lifestyle choices in preventing cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

We are discussing the fascinating world of chemoprevention, natural products, and well-being, particularly their roles in preventing and managing cancer. For someone who’s never heard of chemoprevention, how would you explain it in simple terms?

Babatunde Oluwafemi Adetuyi: Imagine your body is like a garden. Chemoprevention is about keeping the soil healthy and pulling out weeds before they take over. We use natural compounds to protect cells from turning into cancer, like watering plants to help them thrive.Chemoprevention refers to the use of natural or synthetic substances to prevent, slow, or even reverse the development of cancer before it becomes invasive.

Interesting! So, we’re talking about using nature’s pharmacy to stop cancer before it starts?

Exactly! Prevention is always better than treatment, and nature provides powerful molecules that can help.

But can cancer be prevented, or is it just luck?

It’s not all luck! About 30–50% of cancers can be prevented through healthy lifestyle choices, eating well, exercising, not smoking, and reducing alcohol. Natural compounds just give you extra protection.

Are you saying natural remedies are the same as chemoprevention?

Not exactly. Chemoprevention is scientifically studied prevention; natural remedies might work, but chemoprevention is backed by research that shows certain natural compounds actively reduce cancer risk.

I hear a lot about “antioxidants.” What exactly are they?

Antioxidants are like bodyguards for your cells; they fight off harmful molecules called free radicals, which can damage cells and lead to cancer, aging, and brain diseases.

So,does eating more fruits and vegetables help with this?

Absolutely! Brightly colored fruits and veggies are packed with antioxidants, like vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene, that help your body stay healthy and disease-free.

So, does this mean a plant-based diet can lower the risk of cancer?

Yes, a diet rich in phytochemicals, fiber, and antioxidants can reduce inflammation, detoxify harmful compounds, and enhance the immune system, all of which help prevent these diseases.

Give us examples of some of these compounds?

Some of the most studied include:Curcumin (from turmeric) – Anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties.Resveratrol (from grapes and red wine) – Antioxidant and cancer-fighting potential.Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) (from green tea) – Prevents tumor growth. Quercetin (from onions and apples) – Reduces inflammation and inhibits cancer cell growth.6 Gingerol (from ginger)- Reduces inflammation and inhibit tumour growth

Are any of these compounds used in clinical treatments?

Absolutely! Paclitaxel, a powerful chemotherapy drug, is derived from the Pacific yew tree (Taxus brevifolia). Vincristine and vinblastine, used to treat leukemia and lymphoma, come from the Madagascar periwinkle(Catharanthus roseus).

That’s incredible! But why aren’t more natural compounds used in mainstream medicine?

Good question! One major challenge is bioavailability, many natural compounds break down quickly in the body or are poorly absorbed. Scientists are now working on nanoformulations and synthetic modifications to improve their effectiveness.

Can stress cause cancer?

Stress doesn’t directly cause cancer, but it weakens your immune system and makes your body more vulnerable to illness. Managing stressthrough yoga, meditation, or exercisehelps a lot.

What about sleep? How important is it for preventing cancer or brain diseases?

It’s crucial! Poor sleep can lead to chronic inflammation, which is linked to cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. A good 7–8 hours each night helps your body heal and fight off disease.

Is there a difference between organic and non-organic foods in cancer prevention?

Organic foods might have fewer pesticides, but the most important thing is eating a lot of fruits and vegetables – organic or not. The antioxidants are what matter most.

What role does exercise play in cancer and brain health?

Exercise boosts blood flow, reduces inflammation, and strengthens your immune system. Just 30 minutes a day can lower your cancer risk and keep your brain sharp.

If natural compounds are so effective, why isn’t there more public awareness?

Unfortunately, pharmaceutical companies prioritize synthetic drugs because they can be patented, while natural compounds are harder to commercialize.

What about safety? Are there risks with using phytochemicals?

Yes, dosage matters. Too much of a good thing can be harmful. For example, excessive green tea extract can cause liver damage. Consulting a doctor before taking high doses of supplements is important.

What regulatory bodies should researchers collaborate with to bring these discoveries into mainstream medicine?

Key organizations include:U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), World Health Organization (WHO), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC)

What’s the next big breakthrough we can expect in natural medicine?

Nano-drug delivery systems! Scientists are developing nanoparticles that increase the absorption of natural compounds, making them more effective.

So, what can everyday people do to benefit from these discoveries?

Simple lifestyle changes! Eat a plant-based diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Reduce processed foods, exercise regularly, and manage stress.

Are dietary supplements a good substitute for eating healthy?

No, supplements are helpful but not a replacement. Whole foods give you a mix of nutrients, fiber, and phytochemicals that supplements can’t fully replicate.

Can drinking water help prevent cancer?

Surprisingly, yes! Staying hydrated helps your body flush out toxins that could otherwise damage cells.

Can laughter or happiness actually improve health outcomes?

Believe it or not, yes! Positive emotions reduce stress hormones and boost immune function, which helps with cancer.

Are there cultures or countries that have lower cancer rates because of their diet?

Yes! The Mediterranean diet – rich in olive oil, fish, fruits, and veggies, has been linked to lower cancer and Alzheimer’s rates.

Should people get genetic testing to see if they’re at risk for cancer?

It can be helpful if you have a family history, but lifestyle choices still play a bigger role than genetics for most people.

What’s a myth about cancer prevention that you’d like to clear up?

That cancer is completely random and inevitable – it’s not! Small daily habits make a big difference in lowering your risk.