Based on PubMed | Does regular garlic consumption reduce the risk of endometrial cancer?

Regular garlic consumption has not been proven to reduce endometrial cancer risk, but limited observational data suggest there may be a modest association with lower risk, while evidence reviews judge the overall support as insufficient. ^{[1] [2]}

What the research shows

• One multicenter case‑control study in Italy (454 cases, 908 controls) reported that higher garlic intake was associated with lower odds of endometrial cancer; “high use” was linked to an odds ratio of about 0.62 compared with non‑users, showing a statistically significant trend. This suggests a possible protective association, not proof of causation. ^[1]
• An evidence review that applied the U.S. FDA’s health‑claim evaluation framework concluded there was no credible evidence supporting a relation between garlic intake and a reduced risk of endometrial cancer; evidence for other cancers was limited or mixed. This means current human data are considered inadequate for firm health claims. ^[2]
• Summaries from major cancer centers note that studies on garlic and cancer prevention are mixed overall; they cite inverse associations reported for some cancers including endometrial cancer, but emphasize the inconsistency and lack of definitive proof. These summaries advise caution about drawing conclusions. ^{[3] [4]}

Why the evidence is mixed

• Most human data are observational (case‑control), which can be influenced by recall bias, diet measurement error, and healthy‑user effects. Such studies can suggest associations but cannot prove that garlic itself lowers risk. ^{[1] [2]}
• Prospective cohort or randomized trials directly testing garlic for endometrial cancer risk are lacking, and broader reviews downgrade the certainty because of limited quantity and quality of studies. This is why official evaluations do not endorse a preventive claim. ^{[2] [4]}

Possible biological mechanisms (theoretical)

Laboratory and mechanistic studies show garlic’s sulfur compounds can influence pathways relevant to carcinogenesis (e.g., detoxification enzymes, oxidative stress, cell cycle, apoptosis), which provides a plausible rationale. However, mechanistic plausibility does not equal proven risk reduction in people. ^{[5] [6] [7]}

Practical takeaways for everyday life

• It’s reasonable to include garlic as part of a balanced, plant‑forward diet for taste and overall health, recognizing that its specific effect on endometrial cancer risk is unproven. Rely on broader, well‑supported strategies for endometrial cancer prevention maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical activity, managing diabetes, and discussing hormone therapy risks since these have stronger evidence bases. ^[2]
• If you are considering garlic supplements, be mindful of safety: garlic can decrease platelet aggregation and may increase bleeding risk, especially if you take anticoagulants; it is often advised to stop high‑dose garlic before surgery. Discuss supplements with your clinician to avoid interactions or side effects. ^{[8] [7]}

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Bottom line

• There is a signal from at least one case‑control study that higher garlic consumption may be associated with lower endometrial cancer risk, but evidence reviews applying rigorous standards find no credible proof to support a preventive claim. At this time, garlic should not be relied upon to reduce endometrial cancer risk; focus on proven lifestyle and medical risk‑reduction measures while enjoying garlic as part of a healthy diet. ^{[1] [2] [3] [4]}