Lung cancer is a form of cancer that begins in the lungs. It is the deadliest form of the disease, and according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information's PubMed Health website, more people die from this condition than breast, colon and prostate cancers combined. Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, followed by high levels of air pollution, asbestos, family history and exposure to radiation. Symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, loss of appetite, changing voice and difficulty swallowing. Treatment may involve chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery. Certain supplements, such as cholecalciferol, may also help manage lung cancer.
About Cholecalciferol
Cholecalciferol, or vitamin D-3, is a form of vitamin D that is generated in the skin on exposure to sunlight. It is also found in fortified dairy products and certain meats. Cholecalciferol supplements are also available as capsules, tablets and oral drops and may be recommended by your doctor to treat vitamin D deficiency. In fact, University of Maryland Medical Center is better at raising vitamin D levels in blood better than any other forms of the vitamin. The dose and form of supplements, however, depend on the age of the individual and condition being treated.
Link Between Cholecalciferol and Lung Cancer
Vitamin D-3 supplements improve the efficacy of cancer vaccines in treating Lewis lung carcinoma, according to a study published in the March 2010 issue of the journal "Experimental Oncology." Another study published in the April 2007 issue of the journal "Anti-Cancer Drugs" also reveals that certain analogs of vitamin D-3 may inhibit lung cancer tumor growth in laboratory animals. The results of a study presented at the 2005 American Association of Cancer Research conference indicate that vitamin D may help improve survival rates of individuals with lung cancer.
Side Effects
Cholecalciferol supplements are generally safe to use, although allergic reactions characterized by skin rash, shortness of breath and hives may occur. Seek emergency medical help if you experience these symptoms. The supplements may also lead to changes in behavior, irritation, frequent urination, chest pain, weakness, weight loss and muscle pain. Cholecalciferol may also interfere with certain antacid and seizure medications.
Precautions
Talk to a doctor before using cholecalciferol supplements to determine if they are right for you. Remember that more research is needed before these supplements can replace your existing anti-cancer medications. Inform your doctor about other medications you might be taking and other pre-existing conditions to avoid complications.
References
- "Experimental Oncology"; Administration of Vitamin D-3 Improves Antimetastatic Efficacy of Cancer Vaccine Therapy of Lewis Lung Carcinoma; E. Zhuravel, et al.; March 2010
- "Anti-Cancer Drugs"; Antitumor Properties of Diastereomeric and Geometric Analogs of Vitamin D-3; J. Wietrzyk, et al.; April 2007
- FoxNews.com: Vitamin D Fights Lung Cancer
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin D
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