Vitamin D levels may play role in beating lymphoma

Submitted by Ross Bonander Sun 12/06/2009

Share on Tumblr

Call (877) 399-6937 or click here to learn more about Cancer Treatment options.

The results of a study carried out at the Mayo Clinic and presented at the meeting of the American Society of Hematology (ASH) suggest that vitamin D levels influence patient survival following standard treatment for diffuse large b-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).

Researchers monitored blood samples taken from 374 patients with previously untreated DLBCL who then underwent treatment involving chemotherapy and discovered that, three years on, patients with a vitamin D deficiency were twice as likely to succomb to their disease as those with sufficient levels in their blood (a vitamin D deficiency was defined in this study as having begun treatment with under 25 nanograms of vitamin D per milliliter of blood).

Researchers were cautious not to make a direct link between vitamin D and lymphoma, and critics of the study noted the lack of controls.

DLBCL is the most common form of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, accounting for four of every ten new NHL diagnoses. Patients are typically over age 50.

By Ross Bonander

Source: Sciencenews.org

Call (877) 399-6937 or click here to learn more about Cancer Treatment options.

Support Groups

SupportGroups.com

For individuals, friends and families who are looking to connect during life's challenging times. Share personal experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.

Cancer Support Groups

Find a Treatment Facility Near You

Click on a state below to find Lymphoma treatment options that could be right for you.

Select a State Below

The information provided on the Lymphoma Information Network is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her health professional. This information is solely for informational and educational purposes. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Neither the owners or employees of LymphomaInfo.net nor the author(s) of site content take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading this site. Always speak with your primary health care provider before engaging in any form of self treatment. Please see our Legal Statement for further information.