High plasma levels of alpha- and beta-carotene are associated with a lower risk of atherosclerosis: results from the Bruneck study.

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE:

A large number of studies have contributed to the hypothesis that carotenoids, vitamins A and E are protective against atherosclerosis by acting as antioxidants. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between plasma levels of carotenoids (alpha- and beta- carotene, lutein, lycopene, zeaxanthin, beta-cryptoxanthin), vitamins A and E, and atherosclerosis in the carotid and femoral arteries.

METHODS:

This prospective and cross sectional study involved a randomly selected population sample of 392 men and women aged 45-65 years. Carotid and femoral artery atherosclerosis was assessed by high-resolution duplex ultrasound.

RESULTS:

alpha- and beta- carotene plasma levels were inversely associated with the prevalence of atherosclerosis in the carotid and femoral arteries (P=0.004) and with the 5-year incidence of atherosclerotic lesions in the carotid arteries (P=0.04). These findings were obtained after adjustment for other cardiovascular risk factors (sex, age, LDL (low density lipoproteins), ferritin, systolic blood pressure, smoking, categories of alcohol consumption, social status, C-reactive protein). Atherosclerosis risk gradually decreased with increasing plasma alpha- and beta-carotene concentrations (P=0.004). No associations were found between vitamin A and E plasma levels and atherosclerosis.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study provides further epidemiological evidence of a protective role of high alpha- and beta- carotene in early atherogenesis.

• Authors: A D'Odorico, D Martines, S Kiechl, G Egger, F Oberhollenzer, P Bonvicini, G C Sturniolo, R Naccarato, J Willeit
• Journal: Atherosclerosis (Atherosclerosis) Vol. 153 Issue 1 Pg. 231-9 (Nov 2000) ISSN: 0021-9150 [Print] Ireland
• PMID: 11058719 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Chemical References

• beta Carotene
• Carotenoids
• alpha-carotene

Topics

• Adult
• Aged
• Arteriosclerosis (diagnostic imaging, epidemiology, etiology)
• Carotenoids (blood)
• Carotid Arteries (diagnostic imaging)
• Cross-Sectional Studies
• Female
• Femoral Artery (diagnostic imaging)
• Humans
• Incidence
• Italy
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Osmolar Concentration
• Prevalence
• Prospective Studies
• Risk Factors
• Ultrasonography
• beta Carotene (blood)