smoking and drinking lead to cancer

A recent study indicates that smoking and drinking alcohol may reverse the anticancer effect of beta- carotene.

Beta carotene is an vitamin A precursor which in the past been touted for reducing the risk of colorectal polyp recurrence. Colorectal polyps are benign tumours that can eventually develop into colorectal cancer. Tests were conducted on 864 participants who had previous polyps removed to see whether their smoking and alcohol intake altered the effects of beta-carotene on colorectal polyp recurrence. It revealed beta-carotene supplements doubled the risk of colorectal polyp recurrence in patients who smoked and drank more than one alcoholic drink a day. Among non-smokers and non-drinkers, beta-carotene was associated with a 44 per cent decrease in the risk of polyp recurrence. The researchers also warned their findings have broad implications for people who use beta-carotene supplements for their health benefits. Beta-carotene studies show the harmful effects caused by the supplements, hence asks for exercising caution while taking the supplements.