COLUMBUS, OHIO — Men who take high doses of vitamin B supplements have a higher risk for lung cancer and the association is greatest among male smokers, according to a new study.

The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, found male smokers taking the highest levels of vitamin B6 — around 11 times the recommended daily amount — had a 30 percent higher chance of getting lung cancer.

Male smokers taking the highest levels of vitamin B12 — around 23 times the recommended daily amount — showed a 40 percent higher chance of getting lung cancer.

Around 77,000 men and women from Washington state, aged 50 to 76, took part in the study over 10-year periods.

The study found no increased risk of lung cancer in women, or with vitamin B9, also known as folate[c].

The researchers, from Ohio State University and the National Taiwan University, said most Americans get enough vitamin B in their diets, so there was no need to take supplements, the Independent reported.

The researchers also said there was no need to take high doses of vitamin B, and the best way to prevent lung cancer was to quit smoking.