The relationship between breast cancer treatment, tumour type and vitamin D level in pre- and postmenopausal women

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to a higher risk of cancer. There is insufficient data regarding the influence of treatment on vitamin D status. The aim of this study was to compare pre- and post-treatment levels of 25(OH)D in premenopausal and postmenopausal women with breast cancer with a different receptor status (ER-estrogen receptors, PR-progesterone receptors) and in healthy controls.

METHODS: 49 patients with breast cancer (23 premenopausal), and 28 healthy controls matched for age, menopausal status and BMI

RESULTS: The pre-treatment levels of 25(OH)D in patients with breast cancer were significantly lower in comparison to the control group (19 ng/mL vs. 30 ng/mL, p<0.001), the lowest in premenopausal women (18.4 ng/mL). After the treatment period, a significant decrease in 25(OH)D level (mean 15.8 ng/mL) was observed. The pre-treatment level of 25(OH)D was significantly lower in patients with ER (16.1 vs. 23.9 ng/mL, p=0.02) and with PR (15 vs. 24.4 ng/mL, p=0.003). The mean pre- and post-treatment levels of 25(OH)D were lower in patients with Ki67 <21% (16.7 vs. 20.1 ng/mL, p=0.15; 12.5 vs. 18.1 ng/mL, p=0.02 respectively).

CONCLUSIONS: 25(OH)D level is lower in patients with breast cancer in comparison to healthy women, regardless of their menopausal status. The lowest levels are found in patients with ER and PR positive tumours. While a significant decrease in 25(OH)D level during the course of therapy is observed, the supplementation of vitamin D should be considered.

 

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See also:

- Vitamin D (analogues and/or derivatives) and cancer;

- The Di Bella Method (A Fixed Part - Dihydrotachysterol, Alfacalcidol, synthetic Vitamin D3);

- The Di Bella Method (DBM) in the treatment of prostate cancer: a preliminary retrospective study of 16 patients and a review of the literature;

- Complete objective response, stable for 5 years, with the Di Bella Method, of multiple-metastatic carcinoma of the breast;

- Evaluation of the safety and efficacy of the first-line treatment with somatostatin combined with melatonin, retinoids, vitamin D3, and low doses of cyclophosphamide in 20 cases of breast cancer: a preliminary report;

- The Di Bella Method (DBM) improved survival, objective response and performance status in a retrospective observational clinical study on 122 cases of breast cancer;

- Complete objective response to biological therapy of plurifocal breast carcinoma.