Summary
This study evaluated the relationship between blood levels of beta carotene and cancer of the cervix (lower part of the uterus) and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (early stage of the tumor). Levels of beta carotene were measured in the blood and cells of a group of women. The results showed that beta carotene was found to be significantly decreased in women with cancer of the cervix and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. In addition, beta carotene levels were markedly increased in the majority of patients (79%) after oral supplementation. In was concluded that beta carotene deficiency can facilitate the progression of the tumor. More details can be found in the study.
References
P R Palan, M S Mikhail, J Basu, S L Romney