Globally, there is a rising trend of people taking nutritional supplements, particularly vitamins. However, some studies suggest a potential association between certain supplements—specifically beta-carotene, vitamin E, and B vitamins—and an increased risk of cancer.
Beta-Carotene
A meta-analysis published in Nutrition Reviews in 2023 analyzed eight randomized controlled trials and found that taking beta-carotene supplements showed no overall beneficial or harmful effects on cancer incidence but may increase lung cancer risk, particularly among smokers. Therefore, beta-carotene supplementation is not recommended for cancer prevention.Additionally, a systematic review and meta-analysis published in Nutrients in 2022 established a 16 percent increase in lung cancer risk associated with beta-carotene supplementation, with smokers and asbestos workers facing an even greater risk of 21 percent.
