Beta-carotene linked to reduced mortality risk in the elderly

In a study of adults followed for 10 years, those with higher plasma carotene concentrations had a lower overall risk of death, and a lower risk of death from cancer and cardiovascular disease specifically. Beta-carotene linked to reduced mortality risk in the elderly In a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers have demonstrated an association between plasma carotene levels and lower death rates among the elderly. This prospective study involved 1168 elderly men and women who were followed for 10 years. After the follow-up period, researchers looked at causes of mortality in the study population. The subjects with higher plasma carotene concentrations had a lower overall mortality risk, and a lower risk of mortality from cancer and cardiovascular disease specifically. To put the results in context, researchers performed a meta-analysis of 5 studies on plasma antioxidants and all-cause mortality in elderly populations. These findings are somewhat surprising since some of the previous supplemental trials have been negative or inconclusive. The researchers suggested that the confusing evidence so far may indicate that beta-carotene needs to be taken in concert with other antioxidants to have a beneficial effect on health. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol. 82, No. 4, 879-886, October 2005

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