Can vitamin D from sun prevent cancer?

Did you know that vitamin D, also known as the “sunshine vitamin,” might have a role in preventing cancer? While our food doesn’t provide much vitamin D, we can get it through supplements or by spending time in the sun. But is there really a link between sun exposure, vitamin D, and cancer prevention?

The Connection Between Vitamin D and Cancer

Scientists have noticed an interesting pattern: people who live in sunnier regions have lower rates of cancer and fewer deaths from the disease compared to those in less sunny areas. This led researchers to investigate the effects of vitamin D on cancer prevention.

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Experimental evidence suggests that vitamin D, in the form of calcitriol, can exhibit anticancer actions through various signaling pathways. It has been found to inhibit cancer cell proliferation, induce cell death and differentiation, as well as suppress metastasis and angiogenesis in different types of cancer. Not only does it affect cancer cells, but it also influences the tumor microenvironment, the supportive structure where cancer cells thrive.

Which Cancers Might be Prevented by Regular Sun Exposure?

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Epidemiologic and observational data suggest an inverse relationship between vitamin D and cancer risk for many types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, leukemia and lymphoma, and prostate. However, it’s important to note that some studies have failed to demonstrate this inverse relationship for each malignancy.

Considerable research has focused on colorectal cancer, where evidence suggests a lower incidence in those with adequate levels of vitamin D. Studies have also found lower odds of developing breast cancer and reduced chances of recurrence in individuals with normal vitamin D levels.

In June 2019, the American Society of Oncology presented data from a study conducted by Michigan State University. The study involved 79,055 participants from 10 trials who took vitamin D supplements for at least 3 years. The results showed a significant link between vitamin D and a reduced risk of cancer-related death, although it did not prevent cancer itself.

The Role of Higher Levels of Vitamin D in Cancer Prevention

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In the largest-ever randomized clinical trial testing vitamin D for cancer prevention, known as the VITAL trial, it was found that the supplement did not reduce the risk of developing cancer. This trial included nearly 26,000 patients and aimed to determine if higher levels of vitamin D than recommended for bone health could prevent cancer or reduce the chance of dying from it. However, the trial did find that vitamin D supplements reduced the risk of dying from advanced disease, but only in individuals with normal Body Mass Index.

Ongoing research, such as a larger study from the Dana-Farber Institute, is evaluating whether higher doses of vitamin D can prevent cancer-related deaths from advanced colorectal cancer. This study is based on promising results from a smaller study. Currently, there is extensive ongoing research to determine if vitamin D supplements can help prevent cancer incidence and death. However, it’s important to note that the evidence is still inconclusive.

While the evidence surrounding vitamin D’s role in cancer prevention is not definitive, it is clear that adequate levels of vitamin D are essential for bone health and immunity. Its importance in maintaining good health cannot be emphasized enough.

So, can vitamin D from sunlight prevent cancer? While the answer is not yet fully understood, ensuring adequate vitamin D levels through supplements or sun exposure is crucial for overall well-being.

Sources: https://ncvc.org
Category: Health