High-Dose B Vitamins Increase Lung Cancer Risk in Men
- A large-scale US study is raising concerns: long-term intake of high-dose vitamin B supplements may considerably increase the risk of lung cancer in men, notably active smokers.
- The findings of the "Vitamins and Lifestyle" (VITAL) cohort study challenge the widely held assumption that water-soluble vitamins are harmless.
- Researchers analyzed data from more than 77,000 US Americans over a decade.The result: men who took high-dose single supplements of vitamin B6 or B12 had a two-fold...
A large-scale US study is raising concerns: long-term intake of high-dose vitamin B supplements may considerably increase the risk of lung cancer in men, notably active smokers.
The findings of the “Vitamins and Lifestyle” (VITAL) cohort study challenge the widely held assumption that water-soluble vitamins are harmless. Experts are now advising more caution.
Researchers analyzed data from more than 77,000 US Americans over a decade.The result: men who took high-dose single supplements of vitamin B6 or B12 had a two-fold increased risk of lung cancer.
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Relevant to the topic: Studies like the VITAL cohort show that high doses of vitamin B6 and B12 can be associated with an increased risk of lung cancer – especially in smokers. Before continuing to take over-the-counter supplements, it is advisable to check your blood levels. The free 25-page report “Laboratory Values Self-Check” clearly explains which vital nutrient parameters (including B12) are really relevant, from which limit values action is required, and which tests you should discuss with your doctor. Request Laboratory Values Report now
- The study was prospective – vitamin intake was recorded before a cancer diagnosis was made.
- The association was specific to high-dose single vitamins, not to common multivitamin preparations.
- During the observation period, 808 study participants developed lung cancer.
Smokers are hit hardest
The data reveals a particularly dramatic interaction with tobacco consumption. In male smokers who took high doses, the risk increased massively:
- Vitamin B6: The risk of lung cancer increased by 27%
