Irish scientists find potential link between vitamin D intake and increased breast cancer survival

New research from the Irish Cancer Society has revealed a potential link between the use of vitamin D and the increased survival of breast cancer.

Data from nearly 5,500 breast cancer patients aged 50 to 80 years were analyzed as part of the study.

He found that taking vitamin D supplements after diagnosis was associated with an increased survival rate of 20% over those who had not.

Dr. Robert O'Connor, Director of Research at the Irish Cancer Society, said, "Before buying vitamin D supplements, we urge women with breast cancer to first consult with their medical team. Vitamin D consumption can lead to health problems and each woman's cancer is unique and will require personalized treatment.

"Although it is an important preliminary study, the results show only an association and not causal link. We will only know if vitamin D supplementation should be recommended to improve the results of breast cancer treatment in the coming years when the results of clinical trials are known. "

The research was led by Dr. Jamie Madden, a researcher at the RCSI, under the supervision of Prof. Kathleen Bennett, Associate Professor of Pharmacoepidemiology at RCSI Dublin.

Professor Bennett said, "Previous studies have shown that high blood levels of vitamin D, which can come from our diet, sunlight or supplements, are associated with an increase in breast cancer survival. Our study suggests that vitamin D supplementation might be helpful for women with breast cancer. Major clinical trials are already under way abroad to further this question.

Although the results are significant, the researchers did not have access to information on other measures of women that may have an impact on their likelihood of better outcomes. For example, more and more studies show that moderate physical activity and maintaining a healthy diet may be beneficial for a patient undergoing cancer treatment, but this study did not determine .

Research has also shown that vitamin D users are on average younger, less likely to smoke, and have a lower tumor stage and tumor progression than non-users, all of which are more likely to contribute to better outcomes. survival.

Miriam O'Callaghan, a breast cancer researcher, today launched a fundraising campaign called "Cups Against Breast Cancer", which aims to raise funds for breast cancer research and support services .

Every year, more than 3,100 women are diagnosed with the disease in Ireland.