Can Vitamin D Treat Colon Cancer?

The rate of colorectal cancer is increasing rapidly among people under the age of 50. Many young people are often misdiagnosed or detection occurs in the later stages when the cancer has already metastasized and the five year survival rate is low (14%). Chemotherapy is the standard treatment with some forms of targeted immunotherapies available. Vitamin D plays an important role in maintaining healthy bones and teeth, and may also protect against numerous diseases such as cancer, heart disease and immune function. There is an ongoing debate on how much vitamin D people need each day and the use of vitamin D supplements.

In a recent study, colorectal cancer patients were started on chemo and targeted therapy and additional doses of vitamin D. The effects of disease progression and vitamin D dosages were examined. High doses (4,000 IU) of vitamin D slowed the growth of colorectal cancer for 13 months compared to the 11 months seen for those on the over the counter dosage (400 IU). Therefore, both groups saw significant delays in disease progression. Over the two year study, cancer was 36% less likely to spread or become fatal in patients on high doses of vitamin D. This small-scale study is very promising and suggests an improved outcome for patients taking high-dose vitamin D supplements. However, further studies are needed to determine the health effects of vitamin D supplementation.

For more information: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/2730112

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