Randomized Trial of Beta-Carotene and Macular Degeneration

Summary

To determine whether 50 mg of beta-carotene taken every other day reduces the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD) among male U.S. physicians who were aged 40 to 84 in 1982. To investigate the possible relationship of AMD with other antioxidants, including selenium and vitamins A, C, and E. To identify potential risk factors for development of AMD. Possible risk factors include height, systemic hypertension, cardiovascular disease, blood cholesterol, cigarette smoking, iris and skin color, sunlight exposure, body mass index, diabetes, and alcohol intake.

Timeline

Start

1982-04

Primary completion

—

Completion

—

Outcome

Missed primary endpoint

paper there were 162 cases of ARM in the beta carotene group vs 170 cases in the placebo group (relative risk [RR], 0.96; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.78-1.20). PMID 17353403 ↗

Publications

• Christen WG, Manson JE, Glynn RJ, Gaziano JM, Chew EY, Buring JE, Hennekens CH. Beta carotene supplementation and age-related maculopathy in a randomized trial of US physicians. Arch Ophthalmol. 2007 Mar;125(3):333-9. doi: 10.1001/archopht.125.3.333.

Drugs

Indications