We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is the Connection Between Vitamin D and Cancer?

By Sarah Sullins
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 1,872
Share

Vitamin D and cancer may be related, and, in fact, some studies suggest that a high level of vitamin D in the blood may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Many of the studies performed have been inconsistent, but some show a clear link between a low intake of the vitamin and an increased risk in getting this type of cancer. The information gathered does not indicate a significant link between vitamin D and cancer of other parts of the body, such as breast, pancreatic, or prostate cancers.

There are many ways for a person to receive vitamin D. It can be found in sunlight or man-made UV rays. Supplements can also be taken to increase the level of vitamin D in a person’s blood. Many foods — such as yogurt, milk, fortified cereals and breads, eggs, and fish — contain this necessary vitamin. A small amount of it may also be found in cheese and certain types of meat.

Vitamin D is needed in the human body to help support the immune system. It strengthens bones and reduces inflammation. While there may be beneficial, preventative links between vitamin D and cancer, taking too much of this substance can also be toxic. When this occurs, an excessive amount of calcium develops and deposits in the body's soft tissues. This can lead to irregular heartbeat, pain, confusion, fever, thirst, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and chills.

Colorectal cancer is also commonly known as colon cancer. It involves cancerous cells that grow in the appendix, colon, and rectum. A tumor of this kind may cause anemia, fatigue, bleeding, pale skin, loss of appetite, and weight loss.

Colorectal adenomas are often the main cause of colon cancer. Many studies have shown that taking vitamin D may prevent adenomas from occurring. Those same studies also indicate that this vitamin may be responsible for keeping the adenomas from coming back. Fully understanding the connection between vitamin D and cancer may not only prevent these growths from recurring, but may play a significant role in preventing colorectal cancer entirely.

Although the association between vitamin D and cancer is mostly beneficial when it concerns colorectal cancer, some studies indicate a less positive link. A few have found that high levels of this type of vitamin may increase the risk of other types of cancer. These studies suggested that pancreatic cancer may occur more often in persons with a high level of vitamin D. Too much exposure to UV rays without protection may also increase the risk of skin cancer.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-is-the-connection-between-vitamin-d-and-cancer.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.