Tokushima University study finds curcumin reduces large adenoma recurrence

A randomized, double-blind study conducted by researchers at Tokushima University suggests that a highly absorbable curcumin preparation may reduce the recurrence of large colorectal adenomas. The study, published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, monitored approximately 600 participants across 26 Japanese centers for two years following the endoscopic removal of adenomas.

Results indicated that participants receiving the curcumin supplement experienced a 7.5 percent recurrence rate of adenomas measuring at least 6 millimeters, compared to 13.3 percent in the placebo group. This represents a relative risk reduction of approximately 44 percent for larger adenomas. The effect was most pronounced in high-risk individuals who had previously undergone the removal of at least six adenomas.

While the supplement significantly reduced the size and number of larger adenomas, researchers noted no statistically significant difference in the overall rate of all recurring adenomas regardless of size. Furthermore, the study did not prove that curcumin prevents colorectal cancer, as adenomas typically take many years to develop into carcinomas. Long-term follow-up observations are planned to further evaluate these outcomes.