In a nutshell
This article looked at the effect of vitamin supplements in breast cancer survivors. The effects of vitamin supplementation on breast cancer recurrence and survival were discussed.
Some background
Vitamins are essential for normal growth and development, and have many different functions. For example vitamin D is involved in the regulation of bone construction, and vitamin A regulates cell growth and development. Other vitamins, such as vitamin C and E, act as helper molecules in many protective reactions that happen in the body. These are referred to as antioxidants.
Methods & findings
This study looked at 18,333 patients in remission from breast cancer. These patients provided information about their use of vitamins (either A, B, C, D, E, or a multivitamin combination). 60.6% of patients reported regularly taking supplements.
Results of this analysis showed that women who took antioxidant vitamins (vitamin C, E, or multivitamins), had a 16% decreased risk of death due to any cause. Women who reported regularly taking all three of these antioxidants had a 21% decreased risk of death due to any cause. However, no individual supplement proved beneficial for cancer related survival. Vitamin D use was associated with a decreased risk of recurrence in patients with estrogen receptor positive (HR+) breast cancer only.
The bottom line
This study showed that use of antioxidant vitamins is associated with improved overall survival.
The fine print
A limitation of this study is that vitamin use was patient reported and not controlled. The effect of doses taken was also not discussed.
What’s next?
Consult with your physician about vitamin supplements and their protective effects.
Published By :
Breast Cancer Research and Treatment
Date :
Jun 01, 2013
