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WEDNESDAY NOV 21, 2007 (Foodconsumer.org) -- Deficiency in exposure to sunlight particularly ultraviolet (UVB), meaning low vitamin D level, may increase risk of endometrial cancer, according to a new study by researchers at the Moores Cancer Center at the University of California- San Diego.
The study published in the November 16, 2007 issue of the journal Preventive Medicine found cancer incidence in the regions of highest latitudes is highest. The association was significant even after other factors such as cloud cover, meat intake, weight, and skin pigmentation were considered.
"This is the first study, to our knowledge, to show that higher serum levels of vitamin D are associated with reduced risk of endometrial cancer," said Cedric F. Garland, Dr. P.H., professor of Family and Preventive Medicine in the UCSD School of Medicine, and member of the Moores UCSD Cancer Center.
For the study, the researchers examined data from a database known as GLOBOCAN of cancer incidence, mortality and prevalence for 175 countries, developed by the World health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer.
Endometrial cancer is diagnosed worldwide in 200,000 people and kills 50,000. In the United States, 41,000 new cases and 7,400 deaths are expected each year.
The study added to a growing body of evidence suggesting that vitamin D is preventive against a number of cancers. Studies have found early an association between the level of vitamin D3 and lower risk of cancers of the breast, colon, kidney and ovary.
Ultraviolet rays in sunlight can trigger photosynthesis of vitamin D. An individual who has low exposure to sunlight is likely to be deficient of this vitamin.
One important thing about vitamin D consumers should know is the dose, a foodconsumer.org scientist said. Vitamin D is fat soluble and can accumulate in the body to a toxic level. But new studies have found the worry is not necessary because human beings can tolerate as high a level of 20,000 International units.
To have a preventive effect against cancer, some researchers have suggested the dose needs to be as high as at least 1,500 IU daily.
The ways to increase the vitamin D3 level in the body is to increase exposure to sunlight, take vitamin D3 supplements and eat some vitamin D rich foods such as cod liver oil.
