Vitamin E and risk of age-related cataract: a meta-analysis

ObjectiveWe conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the relationship between vitamin E and age-related cataract (ARC).DesignThe fixed- or random-effect model was selected based on heterogeneity. Meta-regression was used to explore potential sources of between-study heterogeneity. Publication bias was evaluated using Begg's test. The dose-response relationship was assessed by a restricted cubic spline model.SettingRelevant studies were identified by a search of PubMed and the Cochrane Library to May 2014, without language restrictions.SubjectsStudies involved samples of people of all ages.ResultsDietary vitamin E intake, dietary and supplemental vitamin E intake, and high serum tocopherol levels were significantly associated with decreased risk of ARC, the pooled relative risk was 073 (95 % CI 058, 092), 086 (95 % CI 075, 099) and 077 (95 % CI 066, 091), respectively. Supplemental vitamin E intake was non-significantly associated with ARC risk (relative risk=092; 95 % CI 078, 107). The findings from dose-response analysis showed evidence of a non-linear association between dietary vitamin E intake and ARC. The risk of ARC decreased with dietary vitamin E intake from 7 mg/d (relative risk=094; 95 % CI 090, 097).ConclusionsThe findings of the meta-analysis indicated that dietary vitamin E intake, dietary and supplemental vitamin E intake, and high level of serum tocopherol might be significantly associated with reduced ARC risk.