Hydroxyapatite [Ca-10(PO4)(6)(OH)(2)] is the one of the major inorganic constituents of natural bone, which has been broadly used in medical and biological applications. The present research work reports on the preparation of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (HA NPs) via a green and eco-friendly approach based on the use of pectin. The crystalline size, purity and morphology of the as-fabricated HA NPs were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, energy dispersive X-ray (EDAX) spectroscopic analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), correspondingly. Further, cytotoxicity investigations showed a dose dependent cytotoxicity towards prostate cancer cells (PC3 cells). Overall, the results illustrated herein suggest that the as-developed HA NPs may offer prospects for the development of drugs for prostate cancer treatment in nursing care for children.