Dietary Beta Carotene and Lung Cancer Risk in U.S. Nonsmokers

Background: Approximately 15% of all lung cancer deaths in the United States (about 22 350 deaths annually) may not be directly attributable to active cigarette smoking. Consumption of beta carotene, which is derived almost exclusively from intake of fruits and vegetables, has been associated with a reduced risk of lung cancer in smokers. However, studies examining this association in nonsmokers, particularly nonsmoking men, are limited. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine whether dietary factors including beta carotene and retinol are associated with a reduced risk for lung cancer in nonsmoking men and women