Condition
    Strong Evidence
    Effectiveness 1/5

    Beta-Carotene for Skin Cancer

    Beta-carotene does not prevent skin cancer, and in smokers it increased lung cancer incidence and mortality.

    Overview

    Beta-carotene does not prevent skin cancer, and in smokers it increased lung cancer incidence and mortality.

    Verdict

    Not supported

    A clear negative, with documented harm in one population.

    How It Works

    Beta-carotene is a provitamin A carotenoid with antioxidant activity in vitro; at supplemental doses it appears to act as a pro-oxidant in the high-oxygen environment of the lung.

    Dosing & Protocol

    Typical dose

    Recommended dose
    Not recommended at any dose for skin cancer prevention
    Expected timeframe
    Not applicable.

    Protocol

    form
    n/a
    notes
    Avoid entirely if you smoke or have smoked
    duration
    n/a
    starting dose
    Not recommended

    Evidence

    What the studies say

    Randomised trials of beta-carotene for skin cancer prevention, including the Nambour skin cancer trial, found no reduction in basal or squamous cell carcinoma incidence. Separately, the ATBC and CARET trials found beta-carotene supplementation increased lung cancer incidence and overall mortality in smokers and asbestos-exposed workers, leading to early termination of CARET. Dietary carotenoids from food carry no such signal — the harm is specific to high-dose supplementation.

    Drugs for preventing lung cancer in healthy people

    Score: 8/10
    2020
    systematic_review

    Cortés-Jofré M, Rueda JR, Asenjo-Lobos C +1 more

    Some studies have suggested a protective effect of antioxidant nutrients and higher dietary levels of fruits and vegetables on lung cancer.

    View source

    Safety

    Caveats

    Increased lung cancer incidence and mortality in smokers and asbestos-exposed workers. Do not supplement.

    Less likely to help if

    Everyone — no group has shown skin cancer benefit.

    Medical Disclaimer

    The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any supplement regimen.

    Individual results may vary. The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products and information are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.