Beta carotene, smoking, and lung cancer Posted: 12-10-06 22:49pm
I would like some clarification about the
use of vitamin supplements containing beta
carotene and smoking. I am an ex-smoker.
I quit smoking regularly several years
ago, but would still light up every now
and then. I stopped altogether months ago
and have no intention of starting again.
I recently read that use of beta carotene
by smokers and ex-smokers may lead to an
increased risk of lung cancer. I have
taken Centrum mulitvitamin for years and
that contians 3500 IU of Vitamin A, of
which, 29% is beta carotene. Do I need to
worry about this? I have since stopped
taking the supplement. Can I resume using
it? Will I have to avoid beta carotene
containing multivitamins from now on?
Thanks for your help...
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DoctorAnswer
Doctor Answer
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Lung Cancer Answer A1978 Posted: 08-08-07 07:14am
It is true that there are some scientific
studies in the last several years whose
results indicate beta-carotene (the
precursor of Vitamin A) to be a risk
factor for developing lung cancer. But you
mustn’t forget that smoking is still the
main risk factor for developing lung
cancer. The genetic background of lung
cancer is also very important, but many
genetic aspects of the condition are still
unknown. You should continue to avoid both
smoking and vitamin supplements that
contain beta-carotene.
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