USPSTF releases statement on vitamin, mineral, and multivitamin supplementation to prevent CVD and cancer

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has been gathering evidence since 2014 to inform a guideline update regarding the use of vitamin supplementation to curb the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer among nonpregnant American adults.

They concluded that there is not enough data from published studies for the panel to make a judgment on the risks and harms of supplementation with multivitamins and most single- or paired-nutrient supplements, including vitamins C, B₃, and B₆; and calcium.

Exceptions included vitamin E supplementation, which was determined with moderate certainty to generate no net benefit for CVD or cancer prevention. The other exception was beta carotene supplementation, the harms of which—including the risk of lung cancer in some populations—eclipsed the benefits, according to USPSTF.

The policymakers recommend against the use of both beta carotene and vitamin E supplements despite any anti-inflammatory or antioxidative effects.

The 2022 recommendations are in line with the 2014 guidance.