Precautions
Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®
Use of beta-carotene has been associated with an increased risk of lung cancer in people who smoke or who have been exposed to asbestos. One study of 29,000 male smokers found an 18% increase in lung cancer in the group receiving 20 mg of beta-carotene a day for 5 to 8 years. Another study of 18,000 people found 28% more lung cancers in people with a history of smoking and/or asbestos exposure. These people took 30 mg of beta-carotene in addition to 25,000 Units of retinol (a form of vitamin A) a day for 4 years. However, one study of 22,000 male physicians, some of them smokers or former smokers, found no increase in lung cancer. These people took 50 mg of beta-carotene every other day for 12 years. If you smoke or have a history of smoking or asbestos exposure, you should not take large amounts of beta-carotene supplements for long periods of time. However, foods that are rich in beta-carotene are considered safe and appear to lower the risk of some types of cancer and possibly heart disease.
Portions of this document last updated: Feb. 01, 2023
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As an enthusiast deeply immersed in the field of nutrition and health, I bring forth a wealth of knowledge and expertise to shed light on the nuances of beta-carotene and its implications on lung cancer risk. My understanding is rooted in extensive research, and I can confidently navigate through the complexities of the subject matter.
Now, let's delve into the evidence surrounding the use of beta-carotene and its correlation with an increased risk of lung cancer, particularly in individuals who smoke or have been exposed to asbestos. The information provided in the article is sourced from reputable databases, such as Merative and Micromedex®, ensuring a foundation built on credible data.
The article references a study involving 29,000 male smokers, revealing an 18% increase in lung cancer within the group that received 20 mg of beta-carotene daily for 5 to 8 years. Another study, encompassing 18,000 individuals with a history of smoking and/or asbestos exposure, reported a 28% higher incidence of lung cancers in those taking 30 mg of beta-carotene along with 25,000 Units of retinol daily for 4 years.
However, it is crucial to highlight the intriguing contradiction presented by a study involving 22,000 male physicians, some of whom were smokers or former smokers. This study found no increase in lung cancer despite the participants taking 50 mg of beta-carotene every other day for an extensive 12-year period. This intriguing discrepancy emphasizes the complexity of the relationship between beta-carotene and lung cancer risk, and it underscores the importance of considering various factors, such as population characteristics and study design.
The takeaway from this wealth of evidence is a cautionary note for individuals who smoke or have a history of smoking or asbestos exposure. The article strongly advises against the consumption of large amounts of beta-carotene supplements for extended periods in such individuals. This precaution is based on the observed associations between beta-carotene supplementation and increased lung cancer risk in specific populations.
It is noteworthy, however, that the article distinguishes between beta-carotene supplements and foods rich in beta-carotene. While caution is urged regarding supplements, foods naturally abundant in beta-carotene are considered safe and may even contribute to lowering the risk of certain types of cancer and potentially heart disease.
In conclusion, the nuanced and sometimes conflicting evidence surrounding beta-carotene and lung cancer risk underscores the importance of personalized health recommendations and the need for further research to elucidate the intricacies of these relationships. As of the latest update in February 2023, these insights contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the precautions one should consider when navigating the landscape of beta-carotene supplementation in the context of lung health.
