Carotenoids, Vitamin A May Prevent Polyp Recurrence

CHAPEL HILL, N.C.--The carotenoids alpha-carotene and beta-carotene, as well as vitamin A were inversely related to ademonatous polyp recurrence in a subcohort of 834 participants undergoing a low fat, high fiber, high fruit and high vegetable dietary intervention, according to a study published in the November issue of the International Journal of Cancer (112, 2:295-305, 2004) (www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgi-bin/jhome/29331).

During the course of the trial, researchers monitored polyp recurrence and carotenoid and vitamin A values after adjustment for covariates. The risk of adenomatous polyp recurrence was inversely related to alpha-carotene concentrations and right-sided polyps; alpha-carotene intake and recurrence of any, multiple and right-sided polyps; beta-carotene intake and multiple adenoma recurrence; and vitamin A from food and dietary supplements and each adverse endpoint.

The researchers concluded alpha-carotene and vitamin A may protect against adenomatous polyp recurrence in nonsmokers and nondrinkers or be indicative of compliance or another healthy lifestyle factor that reduces risk.