Beta-carotene and risk of cancer in smokers

A high dose of beta-carotene can boost the risk of lung cancer among smokers. Some studies have suggested that beta-carotene supplementation may increase the risk of lung cancer, particularly among smokers or former smokers. Beta-carotene, a provitamin A, is available in multivitamins. Smokers need to check the beta-carotene content of any multivitamin supplements they take, especially if these supplements are promoted as being beneficial for the eyes. Many multivitamins that contain large amounts of the nutrient carry no warning. Researchers from America reviewed studies on high-dose beta-carotene supplementation and lung cancer risk among smokers and former smokers. They also evaluated the amount of beta-carotene found in the supplements. The analysis showed that smokers who took a high-dose of beta-carotene (from 20 to 30 milligrams daily) had a 24 percent increased risk of lung cancer compared to smokers who weren't taking beta-carotene. However, the nutrient didn't affect lung cancer risk for ex-smokers. Most of the 47 multivitamins the researchers looked at contained 0.3 milligrams of beta-carotene, with amounts ranging from zero to 17.2 milligrams. Among another 17 multivitamins which are promoted as being beneficial to visual health, most provided 3 milligrams of the nutrient per dose, with content ranging from zero to 24 milligrams. The findings reveal that despite evidence of linking high dose of beta-carotene to lung cancer risk for smokers, many of the products had no warnings on their labels. Only a few had a warning directing smokers to consult a doctor before taking supplements. However, they have not mentioned about the risk of lung cancer involved in taking the supplement to the smokers.

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