Vitamin D is known to be an essential nutrient for good bone health. However, recent research suggests that it might also have cancer-fighting properties.

This has fueled the interest of scientists in studying the potential effect of vitamin D in preventing cancer, a disease that affects millions of people worldwide.

Vitamin D and Cancer – The Link

Studies show that vitamin D may be involved in regulating cell division and growth, which are critical processes that can lead to cancer when they go awry.

Furthermore, it has been found that cancer patients often have low levels of vitamin D, suggesting a link between the two.

Several studies have been conducted over the years, some suggesting that vitamin D has a preventive role against cancer while others have not found a significant link.

However, a recent review of numerous studies suggests that vitamin D can play a preventive role in certain cancers.

Types of Cancer that Vitamin D can Prevent

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. Evidence suggests that vitamin D may be linked to a reduced risk of breast cancer.

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reports that women with higher levels of vitamin D in their blood had a 50% lower risk of developing breast cancer than those with lower levels. Another study found that women with breast cancer who took vitamin D supplements had a lower risk of disease recurrence and death.

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death worldwide. Several studies have examined the link between vitamin D and colorectal cancer, with many showing a protective effect.

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute reports that people with higher levels of vitamin D had a lower risk of developing colorectal cancer. Another study found that people with low levels of vitamin D were more likely to develop precancerous colon polyps.

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men worldwide. Studies suggest that vitamin D may play a role in reducing the risk of prostate cancer.

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute reports that men with higher levels of vitamin D had a 45% lower risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer. Another study found that men with prostate cancer who took vitamin D supplements had a lower risk of disease progression and death.

Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer is a relatively uncommon cancer, but it can be deadly if not caught early. Studies suggest that vitamin D may be linked to a reduced risk of bladder cancer.

A study published in the Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology reports that people with higher levels of vitamin D had a lower risk of developing bladder cancer. Another study found that vitamin D supplements could slow the growth of bladder cancer cells in vitro.

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the most common cancer in the world and is responsible for the most cancer deaths. Several studies have examined the link between vitamin D and lung cancer, with mixed results.

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute reports that people with higher levels of vitamin D had a lower risk of developing lung cancer. However, other studies have not found a significant link between vitamin D and lung cancer.

Conclusion

The role of vitamin D in preventing cancer is still a subject of intense research. However, the evidence suggests that vitamin D may play a role in reducing the risk of certain cancers.

While more research is needed to fully understand the link between vitamin D and cancer, it is clear that maintaining adequate levels of vitamin D is essential for overall good health.