Too Much Vitamin E Increases Lung Cancer Risk

Research suggests that high doses of daily Vitamin E intake may increase risk for developing lung cancer.

DrChristopher Slatore of the University of Washington in Seattle, who ledthe study, said: "In contrast to the often assumed benefits or at leastlack of harm, supplemental vitamin E was associated with a smallincreased risk of lung cancer."

"Future studies may focus onother components of fruits and vegetables that may explain thedecreased risk of cancer that has been associated with fruit andvegetables. Meanwhile, our results should prompt clinicians to counselpatients that these supplements are unlikely to reduce the risk of lungcancer and may be detrimental."

Study examined 77126 peopleaged from 50 to 76. All of them were taking 400 milligrams of Vitamin Edaily. The study lasted 4 years. By the end of the study 521 developedlung cancer, this means that high doses of Vitamin E increases cancerrisk by 28%.

Researchhas also studied link between Vitamin C, folic acid and lung cancer.None of these supplements affected cancer risk. Other factors affectingcancer risk are found to be family history, age and smoking. Smoking isconsidered as most dangerous factor causing different types of cancer,particularly lung one.

Vitamin E is known as antioxidantprotecting cells from damage. However, the study showed it may alsobehave as pro-oxidant that damages cells. This is why researcherssuggest to rely on natural vitamins and minerals contained in fruit andvegetables, rather than artificial supplements. Scientists also adviseto adopt healthy living habits, such as exercising, healthy food, andthe most important smoking cessation.