Low Blood Levels of Vitamin D Associated with Increased Risk of Mortality from Breast Cancer
We’ve heard a lot about vitamin D lately. Now a recent research study released by the American Society of Clinical Oncology suggests that supplementation might improve the odds of beating breast cancer. The Canadian study flat out stated that women diagnosed with breast cancer are nearly twice as likely to have cancer metastasize and are 73 percent more likely to die from their cancer if they have low levels of vitamin D.
Although this study is important for all women with breast cancer, particular attention should be paid to the results for those individuals living in areas with long winters and little sunshine. Despite fortification of some foods with vitamin D, this fortification is not enough to assure adequate health in those populations exposed to little sunlight.
Only one in four women in this study had “adequate” amounts of the vitamin in their blood. Also, the younger women had lower levels than older women because older women were found to take more vitamin D supplements to prevent bone fractures.
The study design looked at 512 women who were followed for 11 years. Women provided a blood sample before their cancer treatments started and their vitamin D status was determined. All had cancer at an early staging and it had not spread to other areas in the body. The average age was 50 years.
The group of women with the lowest rate of death had a vitamin D level of 80-120 nonomoles/liter and the average level was 58 nmol/L. Metastases was associated with vitamin D status ; women with insufficient levels were 94 per cent more likely to have the disease spread ten years after diagnosis.
The study recommended that women can raise their blood level of vitamin D through spring and summer sun exposure (being cautious to minimize risk of skin cancer) and through the use of supplemental vitamin D.
About the Author
Kathy Shattler received her Master of Science degree from Michigan State University in E. Lansing Michigan in Human Nutrition. Her twenty-two years of practice includes holding positions as a Lecturer, Chief Clinical Dietitian and Program Manager. Kathy is the Founder of Nutri-Care Consulting and is currently the Nutrition Director of www.CEU4U.COM, an online continuing education management company for Registered Dietitians and Dietetic Technicians.
