Can Vitamin Deficiency be a Sign of Cancer?
Vitamins play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, cell maturation, and differentiation and in expressing gene information. Consequently, inadequate vitamin intake can lead to deficiency diseases, including cancers.
Read on to learn more about the various cancer symptoms of vitamin deficiency!
Table of Contents
What is Vitamin Deficiency?
Long-term vitamin shortage is a condition known as vitamin deficiency. A vitamin deficiency is categorised as primary when it results from insufficient intake and secondary when an underlying condition like malabsorption causes it.
Brittle hair and nails, mouth ulcers, hair loss, scaly skin areas, and other symptoms can indicate a vitamin deficiency. Knowing these symptoms can assist you in modifying your diet.
Which Vitamin Deficiency Causes Cancer?
Several essential vitamins can prevent the human body from developing certain cancers. Several studies have tried to link vitamin D to different types of cancers. Apart from vitamin D, other vitamins, like B9, B6, and B12, can lead to cancer.
Let’s discuss this briefly!
In one study, researchers collected blood samples from around 160 men and women who have cancers to establish the link between vitamin D and cancer.
This research primarily focused on measuring the vitamin D level of those selected individuals. The result showed that among the 160 people, 42% had insufficient vitamin D, and 32% had a significant deficit of vitamin D. Also, the lowest levels of this vitamin had adversely led to advanced stages of cancer.
It is clear from the above discussion that low vitamin causes cancer. Now, let’s move on to the different types of cancer caused by vitamin deficiency and the usage of vitamins to treat cancer.
Which Type of Cancer is Caused by Vitamin Deficiency?
As stated earlier, vitamin deficiency can lead to several types of cancer and the common diagnoses were
Deficiency of other vitamins can cause cancer of the following types,
- Deficiency of Folate (B9) can lead to colorectum, pancreas, breast and prostate cancer.
- Inadequate B6 and B12 in the human body can result in lung cancer.
Symptoms of Vitamin Deficiency Related to Cancer
Till now, we have understood that vitamin deficiency can be a sign of cancer. So, now, let’s briefly discuss the symptoms of cancers caused by certain vitamin deficiencies.
Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
Vitamin D deficiency may increase the risk of prostate cancer because Vitamin D helps regulate cell growth and keep cells healthy. Low levels of Vitamin D can lead to abnormal cell growth in the prostate. This uncontrolled growth can eventually turn into cancer. Symptoms include:
- Frequent urination
- Blood in the urine
- Blood in the semen
- Pain or burning sensation during urinating
- Erectile dysfunction
- Trouble while sitting due to enlarged prostate
- Weight loss
- Bone pain
- Interrupted urine flow
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Vitamin D deficiency may increase the risk of breast cancer because this vitamin helps regulate cell growth and keeps cells from becoming cancerous. Without enough vitamin D, cells might grow uncontrollably, leading to cancer development. Additionally, vitamin D helps the immune system identify and destroy abnormal cells. Thus, insufficient vitamin D can compromise the body's ability to prevent and fight cancer.
The symptoms of breast cancer depend on the type. Discussed below are the different types of cancers along with their symptoms.
1. Signs of Ductal Carcinoma
- Swelling
- Flat or inverted nipples
2. Signs of Metastatic Breast Cancer
- Headache
- Bone pain
- Belly swelling
- Trouble breathing
- Double vision
- Nausea
3. Signs of Invasive Breast Cancer
- One breast looks different from the other
- Lumps in the breast or armpit
- Rash
- Swelling in breast
- Hard lymph nodes that might be stuck together in the skin
- Pain in a specific area
4. Signs of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
- Breast pain or redness
- Lump in the breast
- Inverted nipple which has a discharge
5. Signs of Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC)
- Unusual nipple discharge
- Leathery skin
Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer
Vitamin D deficiency can weaken the immune system and disrupt normal cell growth. This imbalance can contribute to the development of thyroid abnormalities. Over time, these abnormalities can increase the risk of thyroid cancer. Symptoms include:
- Swelling in the neck
- Pain in the neck and throat
- Changes in one’s voice, including increased hoarseness
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty breathing
- Constant cough (without the symptoms of cold)
- Swollen lymph nodes
Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer
Vitamin D helps regulate cell growth and maintain healthy cells in the colon. A deficiency in vitamin D can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and mutations, increasing the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Additionally, vitamin D supports the immune system, which helps detect and destroy cancerous cells early on.
Mentioned below are the colorectal cancer symptoms due to vitamin deficiency.
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
- Blood in the stool
- Cramping or abdominal pain
- Bleeding from the rectum
- Weakness and fatigue
- Unusual weight loss
Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer
Vitamin D deficiency can weaken the immune system and disrupt normal cell growth. This imbalance can increase the risk of cells becoming cancerous, including in the pancreas. Additionally, low Vitamin D levels can promote inflammation, which is linked to higher cancer risk. Overall, insufficient Vitamin D may create conditions that make pancreatic cancer more likely to develop. Symptoms include:
- Jaundice and related symptoms
- Liver enlargement
- Nausea and vomiting
- Back pain
- Bloating
- Blood clots
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Vitamin D deficiency can weaken the immune system and impair the body's ability to fight off abnormal cell growth. Low levels of Vitamin D have been linked to increased inflammation, which can contribute to cancer development. Studies suggest that insufficient Vitamin D might raise the risk of lung cancer. Symptoms include:
- Cough (that stays for more than 2 or 3 weeks)
- Coughing up blood orrust-coloured spectrum
- Hoarseness
- Pain while breathing or coughing
- Chest infections
- Loss of energy
- Breathlessness
What are the Causes of Vitamin D Deficiency?
Consulting a healthcare provider is recommended for individuals at risk or showing symptoms of deficiency. Vitamin D deficiency can be caused by several factors, including:
Diagnosis of Vitamin D Deficiency
Diagnosing vitamin D deficiency typically involves assessing both clinical symptoms and laboratory tests. Here are the main methods used for diagnosis:
Clinical Assessment
Vitamin D deficiency symptoms can be non-specific and include bone pain, muscle weakness, fatigue, and mood changes. A healthcare provider will evaluate these symptoms in the context of other health factors.
Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) Test
This is the most accurate measure of vitamin D status. It reflects the total amount of vitamin D from dietary intake, supplements, and sun exposure. Levels below 20 ng/mL (50 nmol/L) are generally considered deficient, while levels between 20-29 ng/mL (50-74 nmol/L) indicate insufficiency.
Calcium and Phosphate Levels
Low vitamin D levels can lead to low calcium levels in the blood (hypocalcemia). Vitamin D deficiency can also result in low phosphate levels (hypophosphatemia).
Bone Density Testing
In cases where vitamin D deficiency has led to bone loss (osteoporosis or osteomalacia), bone density testing (DEXA scan) may be performed to assess bone health.
Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) Levels
Vitamin D deficiency can increase parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion as the body attempts to maintain normal calcium levels. Elevated PTH levels can indicate vitamin D deficiency.
Kidney Function Tests
Since vitamin D is metabolised in the kidneys, assessing kidney function (creatinine levels) may be important to understand if impaired kidney function contributes to vitamin D deficiency.
Medical History and Physical Examination
A comprehensive medical history and physical exam help to identify risk factors for vitamin D deficiency, such as limited sunlight exposure, dietary habits, medical conditions, and medications.
Genetic Testing
Genetic testing may be considered in rare cases where there is suspicion of a genetic disorder affecting vitamin D metabolism (e.g., vitamin D-dependent rickets).
12 Best Food Sources of Vitamin D
Fruits to Overcome Vitamin D Deficiency
These fruits have vitamin D. Consuming them can help battle vitamin D deficiency. Follow the table below:
Vegetables to Overcome Vitamin D Deficiency
There aren't too many vegetables with vitamin D. Here are two which have a small amount of vitamin D in them
Other Eatables to Overcome Vitamin D Deficiency
These are a few sources of vitamin D other than vegetables and fruits. Follow the list below to choose your source:
How Much Vitamin D Should You Intake?
According to the National Institutes of Health, the amount of vitamin D you need daily depends on your age. Vitamin D is necessary for the body to feel fit and keep fit.
Side Effects of Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D deficiency can lead to various health issues and symptoms due to its crucial role in several bodily functions. Some of the common side effects and consequences of vitamin D deficiency include:
Bone Health Issues
Osteomalacia is the softening of the bones due to impaired mineralization, leading to bone pain and an increased risk of fractures. Osteoporosis is reduced bone density and increased susceptibility to fractures.
Muscle Weakness and Pain
Vitamin D deficiency can cause muscle weakness, particularly in proximal muscles (close to the body's core), and generalised muscle pain.
Increased Risk of Falls
Muscle weakness and impaired balance associated with vitamin D deficiency can increase the risk of falls, especially in older adults.
Impaired Immune Function
Vitamin D plays a role in regulating the immune system. Deficiency may lead to increased susceptibility to infections and autoimmune diseases.
Mood Disorders
Low levels of vitamin D have been associated with an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.
Fatigue and Generalised Weakness
Vitamin D deficiency can contribute to feelings of tiredness, fatigue, and overall weakness. It will slow you down and make you feel lethargic.
Bone Deformities in Children
Severe vitamin D deficiency in children can lead to rickets, a condition characterised by weakened bones, skeletal deformities (such as bowed legs or knock knees), and delayed growth.
Cardiovascular Risks
Some studies suggest that vitamin D deficiency may be linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, although more research is needed to establish clear causal relationships.
Cognitive Impairment
There is evidence suggesting that low vitamin D levels may be associated with cognitive decline and an increased risk of dementia in older adults.
Pregnancy Complications
Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy can increase the risk of complications such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and preterm birth.
How to Prevent and Overcome Cancer from Vitamin Deficiency?
The role of vitamins in cancer treatment is significant. Among all the vitamins, vitamin D is considered the most effective supplement for cancer treatment and prevention. Also, vitamin B12, along with B9 and B6, can reduce the risk of several cancers.
This piece discussed the various types of cancer symptoms due to vitamin deficiency and the prevention methods. One must be careful of the symptoms and consult doctors immediately if they notice any of the signs discussed here. However, individuals can avoid such diseases by taking vitamin-rich foods and following a healthy diet.
How Long Does it Take to Fix Vitamin D Deficiency?
The time it takes to correct vitamin D deficiency can vary depending on several factors, including the severity of the deficiency, the chosen treatment method, and individual characteristics. Here are some general guidelines:
While some individuals may see improvement in vitamin D levels within weeks of starting supplementation or increasing sunlight exposure, achieving optimal levels can take several months, especially in cases of severe deficiency. Following healthcare provider recommendations regarding dosage and monitoring is crucial to correct vitamin D deficiency effectively.
Who is at Risk of Suffering Vitamin Deficiency?
Regular check-ups and a balanced diet are crucial to prevent vitamin deficiencies, especially for higher-risk groups. Several groups of people are at higher risk of suffering from vitamin deficiencies:
Elderly Individuals
As people age, absorption of certain vitamins, such as B12, decreases. Additionally, dietary intake may be reduced due to various factors.
Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women
Increased nutrient requirements during pregnancy and lactation can lead to deficiencies if dietary intake is insufficient.
Vegetarians and Vegans
These individuals may be at risk of vitamin deficiencies like B12 (found primarily in animal products) and D (limited dietary sources).
People with Certain Medical Conditions
Conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract, liver, or pancreas can impair nutrient absorption. Chronic diseases may also increase nutrient requirements or impair utilisation.
Individuals with Restrictive Diets
Diets that severely limit food intake (e.g., for weight loss purposes) can lead to inadequate vitamin intake.
Alcoholics
Excessive alcohol consumption can interfere with the absorption and utilisation of several vitamins, particularly B vitamins.
People with Malabsorption Syndromes
Conditions such as celiac disease, Crohn's disease, and pancreatic insufficiency can impair the absorption of nutrients, including vitamins.
Individuals with Limited Sun Exposure
Vitamin D deficiency can occur in people with limited sunlight exposure, especially in regions with long winters or who cover their skin for religious or cultural reasons.
Infants and Young Children
Rapid growth and development increase the nutrient requirements during early childhood, making them vulnerable to deficiencies if diets are inadequate.
Maintaining a balanced diet, getting adequate sunlight exposure, and promptly addressing any medical conditions are essential in ensuring optimal vitamin levels. Ultimately, while vitamin deficiency may not indicate cancer, it's crucial to maintain overall health through balanced nutrition and medical oversight to support well-being and potentially detect any health issues early.
