Abstract：Abstract：Objective Existing data indicate that oxidative damage involved in the process of cancer development and progression. The impact of antioxidants on cancer occurrence and development has been a hot research topic. In this paper, we review the literature of the effect of antioxidants on the cancer development and progression. Methods We review the domestic and foreign published literature of antioxidants on the mechanism of cancer occurrence, and the effect of antioxidants on cancer patients during radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Results Current studies show that using high doses of antioxidants during radiotherapy may reduce the anti-cancer effects from radiotherapy, and shorten the survival time. However, the mechanism is unknown. Use of antioxidants during chemotherapy does not affect the efficacy of chemotherapy, and can reduce the side effects from it. Most of the studies failed to confirm that anti-oxidants have any benefits in the prevention of cancer. Conclusions Use of antioxidants during chemotherapy does not affect the efficacy of chemotherapy, and can reduce the side effects from chemotherapy. Currently, most of the large randomized double-blind controlled trial failed to confirm that antioxidant supplements can decrease incidence and mortality of cancer.
2014, Vol. 1 
