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It appears that lycopene is a powerful preventative measure against pancreatic cancer.

Tomatoes are known as lycopene. In the American diet, tomatoes are the main source of lycopene. A Johns Hopkins University research found that low blood lycopene levels are predictive of pancreatic cancer. The researchers looked at 26,000 people’s blood samples that were taken ten years ago in an effort to find hints about who could be most susceptible to pancreatic cancer.

Low amounts of lycopene were one notable dietary variation seen in the blood of cancer sufferers. Compared to healthy individuals with the highest blood lycopene levels, those with the lowest levels had a risk of pancreatic cancer that was more than five times higher. Low lycopene mostly indicates low tomato intake. Lycopene, the pigment that gives these meals their red hue, is also abundant in watermelon. (A separate chemical gives red berries their color; they are not a strong source of lycopene.)

Here are 25 fun, interesting, science-based facts about tomatoes —including what researchers think about their role in fighting pancreatic cancer.

 Tomatoes: Fun Facts + Cancer-Fighting Science

1. Tomatoes are technically fruits, but used like vegetables—science and cooking don’t always agree!
2. Their red color comes from lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that’s heavily studied for cancer protection.
3. Lycopene helps neutralize free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage cells and DNA.
4. DNA damage is one factor involved in cancer development, including pancreatic cancer.
5. Studies suggest higher lycopene intake is linked to lower risk of some cancers, including pancreatic cancer (association, not a cure).
6. Cooked tomatoes are better than raw ones for lycopene absorption—tomato sauce > raw slices.
7. Adding healthy fats (like olive oil) helps your body absorb lycopene even more.
8. Lycopene may help slow abnormal cell growth, a key process in cancer prevention research.
9. Tomatoes also contain beta-carotene, another antioxidant that supports cell health.
10. They’re rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system.
11. Tomatoes help fight chronic inflammation, which is linked to many diseases, including cancer.
12. Pancreatic cancer is associated with oxidative stress, which antioxidants like lycopene help reduce.
13. Tomatoes are low in sugar and calories, making them a healthy everyday food.
14. They contain potassium, which supports cell function and overall metabolism.
15. Lycopene may help block certain signals cancer cells use to grow (shown in lab studies).
16. Tomatoes support gut health, and a healthy gut helps regulate inflammation.
17. Some research suggests lycopene may help improve insulin sensitivity, which matters because diabetes is a pancreatic cancer risk factor.
18. Tomatoes were once thought to be poisonous in Europe—now they’re a superfood.
19. Yellow and orange tomatoes have different antioxidants, but red tomatoes have the most lycopene.
20. Lycopene is fat-soluble, so your body stores it and uses it over time.
21. Tomato-based diets are common in the Mediterranean diet, which is linked to lower cancer risk overall.
22. Tomatoes may help protect cell membranes, making cells more resistant to damage.
23. They contain over 10,000 beneficial plant compounds working together.
24. Eating tomatoes regularly supports overall cellular health, not just one organ.
25. Important truth: Tomatoes don’t cure cancer, but they support the body’s natural defenses and may help lower risk as part of a healthy diet.