2023-08-24 19:03:57
New Study Shows Vitamin D Supplementation Can Improve Survival for Gastrointestinal Cancer Patients
Boston, USA – In a groundbreaking study conducted by researchers from Boston University, it has been revealed that vitamin D supplementation can significantly enhance survival rates for patients with gastrointestinal cancers, including colorectal cancer. The results of the study were published in the prestigious journal “Jama Network Open” on Tuesday.
The study concluded that there is a wealth of clinical studies and scientific evidence supporting the use of vitamin D supplements as an effective strategy for improving survival outcomes in patients with various diseases, including cancers. Dr. Michael F. Holick, professor of medicine and pharmacology at Boston University School of Medicine, emphasized the significance of these findings, stating, “We now know that there are multiple factors that can influence how vitamin D prevents cancer.”
Dr. Holick further explained, “Maintaining a normal weight and taking vitamin D improves your ability to survive cancer. Other factors include the genetic makeup of the patient and how the patient metabolizes and utilizes this essential nutrient.”
The study identified the p53 gene as a key player in preventing the development of malignant cells. The cancer cleverly mutates this gene, enabling the mutated p53 protein to contribute to cancer growth and resistance to treatment.
The results showed that patients who had an immune system actively producing antibodies to control the production and release of the mutated p53 protein were more than 2.5 times more likely to improve their chances of surviving cancer if they consumed 2,000 international units of vitamin D daily. In comparison, patients with antibodies who did not take vitamin D supplements had lower survival rates.
Historically, the connection between sunlight exposure, vitamin D, and the risk of deadly cancers such as colorectal, prostate, and breast cancer has been hypothesized for over a century. However, some scientists have remained skeptical about whether these nutrients truly provide any benefits in reducing cancer risk and mortality.
Dr. Holick believes that future studies should not only consider the variables mentioned above but also the measurement of p53 antibodies in the bloodstream and the presence of p53 in cancerous tissues using immunohistochemical techniques.
Furthermore, he stressed the importance of vitamin D supplementation, stating, “It is well-established that at least 2,000 international units of vitamin D should be taken daily, as this amount cannot be achieved through diet alone.” Dr. Holick also clarified that adequate vitamin D levels cannot be obtained solely through sunlight exposure unless more than 20 percent of the body is exposed daily.
These findings provide hope for gastrointestinal cancer patients and underscore the potential benefits of vitamin D supplementation in improving their chances of survival. Further research in this area is warranted to fully understand the mechanisms through which vitamin D influences cancer prevention and treatment outcomes.]
#vitamin #enhance #ability #survive #cancers #gastrointestinal #tract