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Researchers plan investigation into vitamin D’s role in breast cancer

Category: Vitamin D Deficiency-Diagnosis and Treatment

Vitamin D testing has become extremely popular in recent years, in part because the nutrient has been associated with a wide range of health benefits. Numerous studies have shown that it may support everything from immune health to heart health. Additionally, some researchers think it can limit cancer risk.

One group of investigators from Creighton University is currently planning a study to see if higher levels of vitamin D are associated with lower rates of breast cancer. Previous studies have connected the use of dietary supplements to reduced cancer risk, but the current investigation seeks to determine if higher levels of the nutrient in the blood - as opposed to the amount taken orally - are more important.

The scientists said that this is important because previous studies delivered somewhat mixed results in this regard. Research has suggested that up to 75 percent of breast cancer cases could be prevented if more women maintained adequate levels of vitamin D. However, the evidence is still incomplete.

The American Cancer Society estimates that nearly 40,000 women die from breast cancer each year, suggesting that improved understanding of risk factors could play an important role in boosting the survival rates.