Dietary compounds, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, and spices, have been shown to exhibit anticancer properties due to their high concentrations of
vitamins, minerals, fiber, and secondary metabolites, known as
phytochemicals. Although emerging studies suggest that avocado (Persea americana Mill) displays
antineoplastic properties in addition to numerous other health benefits, current literature lacks an updated comprehensive systematic review dedicated to the anticancer effects of avocado. This review aims to explore the
cancer-preventive effects of avocados and the underlying molecular mechanisms. The in vitro studies suggest the various avocado-derived products and
phytochemicals induced cytotoxicity, reduced cell viability, and inhibited cell proliferation. The in vivo studies revealed reduction in
tumor number, size, and volume as well. The clinical studies demonstrated that avocado leaf extract increased free
oxygen radical formation in larynx
carcinoma tissue. Various avocado products and
phytochemicals from the avocado fruit, including
avocatin-B,
persin, and PaDef
defensin, may serve as viable
cancer prevention and treatment options based on current literature. Despite many favorable outcomes, past research has been limited in scope, and more extensive and mechanism-based in vivo and randomized clinical studies should be performed before avocado-derived bioactive
phytochemicals can be developed as
cancer preventive agents.