A comprehensive analysis of 14 high-quality studies conducted at the German Cancer Research Center, involving nearly 105,000 participants, has revealed a significant relationship between daily vitamin D intake and a reduced risk of cancer mortality.
The study indicates that a 12% reduction in cancer mortality could be achieved through daily vitamin D supplementation.
The Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D deficiency is a common issue globally and is especially pronounced among cancer patients. In Germany, approximately 15% of adults have a marked deficiency. Among colorectal cancer patients, this number rises to 59%, often correlating with a poorer prognosis.
The researchers focused solely on high-quality studies where participants were randomly assigned to either a vitamin D3 supplement group or a placebo group.
Upon analysis, they found no significant results when all studies were combined. However, a clear distinction emerged when separating the studies based on dosing frequency:
- Studies with higher doses administered at longer intervals showed no impact on cancer mortality.
- Conversely, in studies with daily dosing, a notable 12% reduction in cancer mortality was observed.
Implications for Different Age Groups and Timing
Further analysis indicated that individuals over 70 years old benefited most from daily vitamin D3 therapy. Additionally, starting vitamin D intake prior to a cancer diagnosis showed a more pronounced effect.
Why Daily Doses are More Effective
The superior efficacy of daily vitamin D3 doses may be attributed to the regular bioavailability of the active hormone, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D. This hormone, which the body produces from vitamin D, potentially inhibits tumor growth.
Potential for Cancer Prevention
Hermann Brenner, an epidemiologist and prevention expert at DKFZ, highlights the significant potential of regular, low-dose vitamin D3 administration in preventing cancer deaths.
With minimal risk, low cost, and the ability to significantly reduce cancer mortality, especially among those who are vitamin D deficient, this approach presents a promising preventive strategy.
Conclusion
This study underscores the importance of daily vitamin D intake in reducing cancer mortality, particularly among older individuals and those who begin supplementation before a cancer diagnosis.
It opens up new avenues for cancer prevention and management, emphasizing the need for regular, low-dose vitamin D3 intake.
If you care about alcohol, please read studies about Why drinking less alcohol can make your brain healthier and findings of Many cancer survivors drink alcohol too much.
For more information about cancer, please see recent studies about How to harness the power of anti-cancer foods and supplements and results showing that Empower your plate: cancer-fighting foods and recipes.
The research findings can be found in Ageing Research Reviews.
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