The paper is a short overview of the recent research regarding the positive effect of lycopene and some other carotenoids on the risk of prostate carcinoma. The number of studies proved the decrease of carcinoma cells viability, reduction of carcinoma markers and clinical symptoms after lycopene treatment. Although experimental studies clarify the mechanisms of this action, the knowledge is not fully sufficient at present. The effect of the processed tomatoes products is greater in comparison with natural tomatoes due to higher content and bioavilability of lycopene. The research of lycopene effects intensively continues, but nevertheless it seems that activities concerned with prostate carcinoma prevention should recommend the tomato products more stronger.

        Key words: lycopene - prostate carcinoma