The beneficial role of vitamin D and its analogs in cancer treatment and prevention

Background: Cancer is the leading cause of death in the United States, and the probability of developing cancer increases dramatically with age. Interestingly, vitamin D deficiency is also recognized more often in people of advanced ages. A potential relationship between vitamin D deficiency and cancer has been reported in the literature. Method: Review Medline database literature and discuss the relationship between vitamin D status and cancer. Results: Environmental (including seasonal and geographic) and genetic factors contribute to the development of both vitamin D deficiency and cancer. The vitamin D receptor is present in many tissues, especially in malignant cells, and may contribute to the successful use of vitamin D and its analogs in the treatment of some cancer patients. Conclusion: Further investigation of the role of vitamin D in the treatment of cancer is warranted. Crown Copyright (C) 2009 Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.