A new Hungarian study has found a link between vitamin D and colon cancer risk reduction. According to the researchers, taking vitamin D both reduced the risk of developing colon cancer as well as improved outcomes in those already diagnosed with it. People typically get a fair amount of this vitamin from exposure to sunlight. It is also found in foods such as red meat, egg yolk, and oily fish. However, many people living in cities may have a higher likelihood of having a vitamin D deficiency. Therefore, researchers are suggesting that supplementing with vitamin D may be beneficial for those who lack access to natural sources. These findings come at a crucial moment, with colon cancer rates rising by 80% in the last three decades alone.
The Link Between Vitamin D and Colon Cancer Risk Reduction
For the new study, the researchers analyzed 50 previously conducted studies involving over 1.3 million patients. According to their findings, individuals with an adequate vitamin D intake had around 25% to 58% less chance of developing colon cancer. Furthermore, they found a 4% reduced risk for every 2.5 micrograms of vitamin D consumed. According to the NHS, children above the age of one and adults should consume around 10 micrograms of vitamin D daily. Not only does vitamin D lower colon cancer risk, but it also improves outcomes for patients already diagnosed with the disease.
One trial revealed that late-stage colon cancer patients lived an average of two months longer when given a daily dose of vitamin D. There are several reasons why vitamin D supplementation may have cancer-fighting properties. First off, it may help reduce the inflammation that can trigger a cancerous environment. Secondly, by bolstering the immune system, the vitamin may help inhibit tumor growth and cancer cell propagation. However, the efficacy of the vitamin may depend on factors such as dosage, the patient’s condition, and treatment duration. The Hungarian researchers also noted how many individuals are vulnerable to a vitamin D deficiency.
They found that European populations living in urban environments with limited sunlight and air pollution were at greatest risk. According to the study’s author, “Approximately 40 per cent of Europeans are considered vitamin D deficient, with 13 per cent classified as severely deficient.” Additionally, up to two in every five British adults may be vitamin D deficient during winter months due to shorter days. However, the researchers did note that the study had several limitations. Their study included the data of individuals using different types of vitamin D and at varying stages of cancer development.
Scientific Debate Over The Link Between Vitamin D and Colon Cancer Risk
While the results of the study may seem promising, there is still much scientific debate regarding the proposed link between vitamin D and colon cancer. While research is still ongoing, according to the Charity Cancer Research UK, there is no definitive evidence that a deficiency in vitamin D increases your cancer risk. Furthermore, they found no solid evidence that consuming a supplement prevented the development of cancer. According to Cancer Research UK, there has been a 52% increase in colon cancer rates since the early 1990s. This was specifically in the 25 to 49 year old age bracket.
The increase in pollution has been cited as a major factor by many scientists. Others suggest it may be the increasing consumption of ultra-processed foods. However, the rates of colon cancer incidence in younger adults are still relatively low. Vitamin D does provide many benefits outside of its link to colon cancer risk, however. It aids the body in absorbing phosphate and calcium, needed for maintaining nerve muscle, tooth, and bone health. Vitamin D also helps maintain optimal immune system function. Vitamin D deficiency can result in bone-related issues, such as rickets.
According to the NHS, most individuals will be able to get their vitamin D requirements from the sun during Summer, but should supplement during the darker winter months. However, there are certain individuals who should consider taking supplements all year round. This is specifically true for people with darker skin tones, as darker skin allows less vitamin D to be absorbed. Doctors also warn that taking too much vitamin D can also cause health issues, such as hypercalcaemia. This condition can cause bones to grow weaker and also potentially damage ti heart and kidneys.
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