Chemoprophylaxis Effect of EGCG on the Recurrence of Colorectal Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background and Aims The recurrence rate of Colorectal Cancer (CRC) after cure is always high. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether green tea extract (-)-Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) has an effective preventive effect on the recurrence of CRC. Methods We conducted a systematic literature review and meta-analysis of the effects of taking EGCG or placebo on disease recurrence in patients after colon polyp removal. Results Five Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) were included in this review. A double-blind drug trial involving 1389 participants involved EGCG and placebo. The results showed no significant publication bias or heterogeneity in the five studies (I2 = 38%; p = 0.17). Patients taking EGCG had a lower recurrence rate of CRC than those in the placebo group. The results were statistically significant (Z=2.83, p < 0.05). Conclusion This study demonstrated that long-term EGCG can prevent CRC recurrence to a certain extent.