Watch out for vitamin D deficiency!

Medical Oncology Specialist Prof. Dr. Ahmet Sezer emphasized that vitamin D deficiency can pave the way for the development of some types of cancer by affecting not only bone health but also the immune system, inflammatory processes and cellular repair mechanisms.

Prof. Dr. Sezer stated that especially the modern lifestyle distances individuals from natural light sources and this situation spreads vitamin D deficiency throughout the society.

"It is a supportive factor in cancer treatment"

Prof. Dr. Sezer, who mentioned that vitamin D supports the immune system, said, "Vitamin D acts not only as a vitamin in the body, but also as a hormone that plays an important role in the functioning of the immune system, controlling inflammation and regulating cell proliferation. In case of deficiency, there may be disruptions in these processes and cancer formation may be triggered by the uncontrolled proliferation of some cells. Vitamin D in particular has a suppressive effect on tumor growth. Thanks to this feature, keeping vitamin D levels balanced is not only a protective factor but also a supportive factor in treatment."

"Colorectal cancer is on the rise"

Sezer stated that the increase in new colorectal cancer cases is due to various lifestyle factors, and said, "While factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, excessive fatty diet, advancing age, obesity and diabetes increase these risks, vitamin D deficiency also appears as an important triggering factor."

Prof. Dr. Sezer emphasized that vitamin D deficiency, combined with disruptions in intestinal flora and chronic inflammation, contributes to the development of colorectal cancer, and stated that this dual interaction can further increase the risk of cancer.

"Low vitamin D levels may also weaken treatment response"

Emphasizing that the patient's general health status is very important for success in cancer treatment, Sezer said, "Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can directly affect the immune system's response to treatment. Vitamin D deficiency can reduce the response to treatment, prolong the treatment process and increase the risk of recurrence."

"Recommendations for Vitamin D Deficiency"

Prof. Dr. Sezer stated that vitamin D deficiency is a preventable public health problem and made the following recommendations:

"It is possible to compensate for this deficiency in daily life with short-term and controlled sun exposure, consumption of foods rich in vitamin D, and, if necessary, supplements taken with a doctor's advice. These simple but effective steps not only support general health, but also help prevent the development of some types of cancer."