HealthAugust 16, 2026

chemopreventive

KEE-moh-pree-VEN-tiv

Definition

Relating to the use of chemical substances, including natural compounds found in food, to prevent the development or progression of cancer.

Etymology

The word is a hybrid construction combining the Greek 'chemeia' (alchemy or chemistry) and the Latin 'praevenire' (to come before or anticipate). It entered medical terminology to describe substances or strategies that act ahead of time to inhibit disease progression.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe the capacity of bell peppers to actively help stop cancer growth through their specific nutritional composition. It highlights how the pigment maturation in these vegetables creates compounds that provide this protective, anti-cancer function.

Eating Red And Yellow Capsicum Can Help Prevent Cancer: Nutritionist Explains How To Eat Them For Maximum Health Benefits

Read the full article ↗

NDTV

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