Anthocyanins, the most abundant flavonoid constituents of fruits and vegetables, have been extensively studied for their potential anti-carcinogenic properties. This review summarizes recent findings on the anti-carcinogenic activities of anthocyanins and their rich extracts in cell culture models and animal tumor systems, as well as their molecular mechanisms of action. Anthocyanins exhibit antioxidant, anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, and anti-invasive effects, and can induce apoptosis and differentiation in cancer cells. However, epidemiological studies in humans have not consistently shown a protective effect of anthocyanin intake against cancer risk. The low absorption efficiency of anthocyanins in the human body and the need for further research on their metabolism and absorption are discussed. Future studies should focus on enhancing the absorption of anthocyanins and their metabolites to optimize their chemopreventive efficacy in human cancer prevention.Anthocyanins, the most abundant flavonoid constituents of fruits and vegetables, have been extensively studied for their potential anti-carcinogenic properties. This review summarizes recent findings on the anti-carcinogenic activities of anthocyanins and their rich extracts in cell culture models and animal tumor systems, as well as their molecular mechanisms of action. Anthocyanins exhibit antioxidant, anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, and anti-invasive effects, and can induce apoptosis and differentiation in cancer cells. However, epidemiological studies in humans have not consistently shown a protective effect of anthocyanin intake against cancer risk. The low absorption efficiency of anthocyanins in the human body and the need for further research on their metabolism and absorption are discussed. Future studies should focus on enhancing the absorption of anthocyanins and their metabolites to optimize their chemopreventive efficacy in human cancer prevention.