There is some evidence that suggests that a vitamin D deficiency may increase the risk of skin cancer, but more research is needed.
And now, looking more attentively
There is some evidence to suggest that a deficiency in vitamin D may increase the risk of skin cancer, but the relationship between the two is complex and requires further research to fully understand.
According to a 2014 study published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention, individuals with lower levels of vitamin D in their blood had higher odds of developing melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer. However, other studies have found conflicting results and more research is needed to determine the exact nature of the relationship.
One theory is that vitamin D may have a protective effect on the skin, as it plays a role in regulating cell growth and differentiation. Vitamin D may also help repair damaged DNA, thereby reducing the risk of cancerous mutations.
On the other hand, prolonged sun exposure is a major risk factor for skin cancer, and vitamin D is primarily produced in the body through exposure to sunlight. This has led to concerns that promoting sun exposure for the purpose of increasing vitamin D levels may do more harm than good.
Overall, more research is needed to determine the complex relationship between vitamin D and skin cancer. In the meantime, it is important to protect the skin from sun exposure and to consider taking vitamin D supplements if recommended by a healthcare provider.
As the Skin Cancer Foundation puts it, “The best way to get vitamin D and protect yourself from skin cancer is to choose safer sun practices.”
Table: Foods high in vitamin D
Food | Amount of vitamin D per serving |
---|---|
Cod liver oil | 1 tablespoon (15 mL) |
Fatty fish | 3 ounces (85 g) |
Mushrooms | 1 cup, diced |
Fortified milk | 1 cup |
Fortified cereal | 1 serving |
Quote: “Following simple sun-safe behaviors can help ensure that you get enough vitamin D without inadvertently increasing your skin cancer risk” – Dr. Deborah S. Sarnoff, Skin Cancer Foundation President.
See a video about the subject
The video discusses the importance of vitamin D for skin health, including its role in the differentiation and apoptosis of skin cells and innate immunity. While there are no specific skin findings of vitamin D insufficiency, low levels of vitamin D can lead to health problems, including skin issues like psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. However, there is no concrete evidence that vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency causes skin diseases or that it can cure them. To get sufficient vitamin D, it is recommended to protect the skin from harmful UV rays while still getting adequate sun exposure or obtaining it through diet and supplements. The video emphasizes that excess sun exposure cannot provide enough vitamin D while exposing an individual to potential skin damage and skin cancer risk.
There are other opinions on the Internet
We found that people who have high levels of vitamin D in their blood, have an increased risk of two skin cancer types, namely basal cell carcinoma (the most common type of skin cancer) and melanoma (the most dangerous type of skin cancer).
People are also interested
Can a vitamin D deficiency cause skin cancer? As a response to this: Likewise, low vitamin D levels are related to increased susceptibility to melanoma, along with reduced melanoma survival [6].
Then, Does vitamin D deficiency affect skin?
If you’re lacking in vitamin D, your skin may tell on you. For example, if you’re not getting enough vitamin D, your complexion might be dull, lacking that desired glow and you might also experience dry, flaky skin on your face and other areas of your body.
Just so, Why does vitamin D deficiency cause cancer? The answer is: There isn’t enough good evidence to link low levels of vitamin D (vitamin D deficiency) to cancer. But vitamin D deficiency can cause other health conditions, including rickets in children and bone problems in adults. Vitamin D supplements are useful to prevent some health conditions.
What diseases are linked to vitamin D deficiency? Answer: Below, we discuss seven conditions and diseases that have been linked to vitamin D deficiency.
- Diabetes. If you have a vitamin D deficiency, you’re more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes.
- Heart disease.
- Breast, colorectal, and prostate cancer.
- Dementia.
- Depression.
- Erectile dysfunction.
- Osteoporosis and bone disorders.