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Nutrient intake and cataract extraction in women: a prospective study
S E Hankinson1, M J Stampfer, J M Seddon
1Channing Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115.
BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.)
|August 8, 1992
Summary
Dietary carotenoids and long-term vitamin C supplements may reduce cataract risk. Spinach intake was linked to lower risk, while vitamin A intake showed an inverse association with cataract extraction in women.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Nutritional Science
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Cataract extraction is a common surgical procedure.
- Dietary factors, including vitamins and carotenoids, are investigated for their role in eye health.
- Understanding nutritional associations with cataract risk is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively investigate the association between dietary intake of specific vitamins (C, E, riboflavin) and carotenoids and the incidence of cataract extraction in women.
Main Methods:
- Prospective cohort study involving 50,828 female registered nurses aged 45-67.
- Eight years of follow-up across 11 US states.
- Analysis of dietary intake and incidence of senile cataract extraction.
Main Results:
- A significant inverse association was found between total vitamin A intake (dietary) and cataract extraction.
- Women with the highest vitamin A intake had a 39% lower risk of cataract extraction.
- Long-term use of vitamin C supplements (≥10 years) was associated with a 45% lower risk of cataract extraction; dietary vitamin C, E, riboflavin, and beta-carotene were not significantly associated.
Conclusions:
- Dietary carotenoids and sustained vitamin C supplementation may play a role in reducing the risk of cataracts requiring surgical extraction.
- Specific food sources, like spinach, may be more influential than isolated nutrient intake.
- Further research into the mechanisms and specific forms of carotenoids is warranted.