Vitamin deficiencies can lead to a range of health problems, including weakened bones, anaemia, fatigue, impaired immunity, vision issues, and neurological symptoms, highlighting the significant role vitamins play in maintaining overall health.
Prostate cancer on the other hand is a life-threatening disease that is prone in people aged 50 and above or those who have a family history of prostate cancer. You may wonder what the link between the two conditions is and that is exactly what we will discuss in this article. Here's how one particular vitamin deficiency is associated with the risk of prostate cancer. We spoke to two experts to get some answers.
Understanding Prostate Cancer And Its Risk Factors
Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the prostate gland, a part of the male reproductive system. It occurs when cells in the prostate gland grow uncontrollably, leading to a tumour. They may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages, but regular screening can help in early detection and appropriate treatment.
Also Read: PSA Test For Prostate Cancer Diagnosis: Things Men Need To Know About It
A study published in the Journal Frontiers of Public Health suggests that prostate cancer accounted for an estimated 14 lakh new cancer cases and 3.75 lakh deaths in 2020. In India, prostate cancer cases for the periods 2010, 2015, and 2020 were estimated as 26,120, 28,079, and 30,185, respectively, according to data published in the Indian Journal of Urology (IJU).
Some common factors that increase one’s risk of prostate cancer include:
- Age, particularly after 50
- Having a father or brother with prostate cancer
- African American men
- Certain inherited gene mutations
- Being overweight
- High intake of red meat and low intake of fruits/vegetables
- High levels of testosterone or other hormones
- Chronic inflammation of the prostate
Vitamin D Deficiency Can Be A Risk Factor Too
Dr Soumita Biswas, Chief Nutritionist, Aster RV Hospital, Bengaluru, says, “Patients suffering from prostate cancer have low levels of vitamin D, whereas men with healthy levels of vitamin D have lower chances of death from prostate cancer,” adding that prostate cancer rates are higher in areas where there is less sunlight.
Dr Pramod S, Uro-oncologist and Robotic Surgeon, Apollo Clinic, Bengaluru, suggests vitamin D (1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3) is an essential vitamin that is essential for production of steroid hormones. “Men living in ice cold areas with less exposure to sunlight-derived ultraviolet exposure have a higher risk of death from prostate cancer,” he says.
Adding further, he shares, “Prostate cancer occurs more frequently in older men, in whom vitamin D deficiency is more common both because of less ultraviolet exposure and age-related decrease in production of active vitamin D.”
According to a study published in the Journal Oncotarget, lower vitamin D levels were observed in people with prostate cancer. The study also found that prostate cancer was more severe in those with the lowest vitamin D levels and found an association between low vitamin D and higher levels of inflammation in people with prostate cancer.
Research also found that higher vitamin D levels could reduce the risk of death among prostate cancer patients.
Dr Pramod also notes that dietary intake of dairy products rich in calcium decreases levels of serum vitamin D, and is associated with a higher risk of prostate cancer. This involves a dietary calcium intake that is ≥ 2000 mg per day, as per the doctor.
How To Get Optimum Levels Of Vitamin D
The Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) of vitamin D is 600 IU per day, says Dr Pramod, adding, “A blood level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D of 20 ng/mL or higher is considered adequate for bone and overall health.”
While sunlight is the best source of vitamin D, foods such as fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and tuna, fortified foods like dairy products, orange juice, and some cereals also provide vitamin D.
Bottomline
Vitamin D emerges as a potentially influential factor in prostate cancer risk and progression. While research suggests a correlation between adequate vitamin D levels and reduced risk, further investigation is required to establish the link. It's crucial to consult healthcare professionals for personalised guidance on maintaining optimal vitamin D levels and considering broader strategies for prostate cancer prevention and management.
