American Academy of Family Physicians

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Vitamin Supplementation


Vitamin Supplementation, for Cancer and Heart Disease

The AAFP concludes that the evidence is insufficient to recommend for or against the use of supplements of vitamins A, C, or E; multivitamins with folic acid; or antioxidant combinations for the prevention of cancer or cardiovascular disease. (2003)

(Grade: I recommendation)
Grade Definition: http://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/grades.htm
Clinical Considerations: http://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/uspsvita.htm

Vitamin Supplementation, for Cancer and Heart Disease

The AAFP recommends against the use of beta-carotene supplements, either alone or in combination, for the prevention of cancer or cardiovascular disease. (2003)

(Grade: D recommendation)
Grade Definition: http://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/grades.htm
Clinical Considerations: http://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/uspsvita.htm