Vitamin D-often dubbed the “sunshine vitamin”, is best known for keeping bones strong, and bolstering the immune system. However, some research, including large‑scale clinical trials, is pointing to another benefit: higher vitamin‑D levels may be tied to a lower risk of certain cancers and better outcomes for those already diagnosed. That possibility has ignited a wave of interest in vitamin D as both an agent and a supportive nutrient, in cancer care. Grasping this connection helps explain why maintaining healthy vitamin‑D status is regarded as crucial) (though more research is awaited on the same)
How Vitamin D works within the body to fight CancerBeyond its well‑known role in calcium balance, vitamin D behaves like a hormone steering the on/off switches of genes within our cells. In doing so, it reins in cell proliferation, nudges malignant cells toward self‑destruction (apoptosis), curtails their unchecked division, and dampens inflammatory signals that would otherwise create a fertile ground for tumors. Moreover, the vitamin improves immunity, and shapes the sprouting of new blood vessels that feed cancers. Taken together, these intertwined actions can decelerate both the onset and the advancement of cancer, according to research. What Science saysThe VITAL trial-one of the largest studies ever done on vitamin supplements-randomly assigned more than 25,000 adults, who had no cancer to either a daily dose of 2,000 IU vitamin D, or a placebo for roughly five years. The analysis uncovered a 17 % reduction in advanced cancers (those that were metastatic or fatal) among participants taking vitamin D, a benefit that was especially clear in people of normal body weight. This pattern suggests that vitamin D supplementation may lower the chance of cancer spreading, or leading to death. In essence, the trial bolsters the notion that vitamin D can also protect against the more severe forms of cancer, and not just reduce the overall incidence.Observational studiesNumerous observational investigations have linked elevated serum 25‑hydroxyvitamin D-the marker of vitamin status, to a lower risk of colorectal cancer, and a handful of other malignancies. For instance, a meta‑analysis reported a 14 % reduction in cancer‑related mortality among people with vitamin D concentrations. Yet, the evidence for cancers such as breast and lung is more mixed, suggesting that vitamin D’s impact may differ depending on the tumor type.
Critical importance of sufficient Vitamin D from other sourcesVitamin D comes from three sources: the sunshine that reaches our skin, the foods we eat, and the supplements we take. Getting a dose-whether via safe sun exposure, food, or a pill, helps maintain vitamin D levels at a sweet spot, that’s been linked to better cancer outcomes. Research shows that a consistent daily regimen, outperforms occasional high‑dose bursts when it comes to lowering cancer mortality. The benefit seems especially pronounced in people aged 70 and older, who reap the gains in cancer survival from regular vitamin D intake. Moreover, keeping vitamin D levels adequate supports immune health, a known pillar of cancer prevention.Why personalized strategies are essentialAlthough the data linking vitamin D to a cancer risk look encouraging, they fall short of a clear verdict, for every tumor type or population. Some investigations have reported little to no findings among individuals who are overweight or obese. Moreover, vitamin D supplementation should be pursued judiciously to avoid toxicity, that can be extremely harmful. Tailored approaches that consider a person’s current vitamin D levels, body weight and specific cancer‑risk factors, are key to maximising any benefit.Disclaimer: This article is informational only and not a substitute for medical advice
