Beta-carotene is a type of carotenoid, an important precursor to vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential for biochemical and physiological processes in the body including vision, reproduction, cellular differentiation and immunity. Beta-carotene can be obtained from dark-green leafy vegetables and some (not all) yellow and orange coloured vegetables and fruits, as well as dietary supplements.
Studies have shown there is an association between beta-carotene supplements and an increased risk of lung cancer in current smokers. Beta-carotene supplements are unlikely to have a substantial effect on the risk of prostate and non-melanoma skin cancers.
Dietary beta-carotene probably reduces the risk of oesophageal cancer and is unlikely to have a substantial effect on the risk of prostate and non-melanoma skin cancers.
Cancer Council recommends people obtain their nutritional requirements from whole foods, rather than individual nutrients in a supplement form, and avoid taking high doses (>18 mg) of beta-carotene supplements, especially if they smoke. This position details a number of other Cancer Council recommendations and the evidence that supports them.