Breast cancer prevention and treatment: the role of Vitamin D

Breast cancer has been considered as the most common type of cancer among the women. The age-adjusted incidence rate is approximately 25.8 per 100,000 women, with a mortality rate of 12.7 per 100,000 women. This means that about 1 in 29 Indian women are at risk of developing breast cancer during their lifetime. Breast cancer happens when cells in the breast start to grow out of control. Physical signs that breast cancer is developing include changes to the skin on the breast, nipple discharge, and a new lump on or around the breast area. Breast cancer is the uncontrolled growth of cells in the breast tissue. It usually begins in the milk ducts or milk-producing glands. Two major etiologic factors in pathogenesis of breast cancer are: Hormonal and genetic. Breast cancer is so prevalent; knowing the steps to help prevent or detect it is important. Vitamin D, a group of fat-soluble vitamins renowned for their role in preserving the balance of calcium and phosphorus. or people with cancer, a form called vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is preferred over vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) as it is better able to raise and sustain vitamin D levels. Some researchers contend that maintaining optimal vitamin D levels may not only prevent breast cancer but also slow disease progression in those with cancer by delaying changes that lead to metastasis.