Vitamin D and Breast Cancer
Posted 5/11/2009
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Incrasing attention is being paid to Vitamin D levels for general health as well as, specifically, as related to breast cancer. I thought you might be interested in this new article from the Journal of Clinical Oncology. Here is the link if you want to read more click here.
High Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency Despite Supplementation in Premenopausal Women With Breast Cancer Undergoing Adjuvant Chemotherapy
J Clin Oncol. 2009 May 1;27(13):2151-2156, KD Crew, E Shane, S Cremers, DJ McMahon, D Irani, DL Hershman
ABSTRACT: Purpose; Vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased breast cancer risk and decreased breast cancer survival. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, as measured by serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD), in premenopausal women at initiation of adjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer and after 1 year of vitamin D supplementation.
The bottom line is that no one is certain about these associations, but it seems wise to be sure that we have adequate levels of Vitamin D. It seems logical that if there is concern that low levels of Vit D might increase someone's breast cancer risk, similar low levels might not be ideal for a woman who has already been diagnosed. This is an easy blood test and one which many doctors are routinely drawing. If your level is low, it is easy to swallow a daily Vitamin D tablet.
Put this on the "one more thing to ask your doctor" list.
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