FAQ on Pancreatic Cancer and Vitamin D

FAQ on Pancreatic Cancer and Vitamin D

What is vitamin D?
Vitamin D is a compound that takes several forms. Humans receive vitamin D through various foods as well as exposure to sunlight (which prompts skin cells to create vitamin D).

How does vitamin D fight cancer?
This latest study shows that a variation of a form of vitamin D may increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy in pancreatic cancer by helping reverse the inflammation in tissue surrounding a tumor.

Should I take vitamin D if I have cancer?
As of now, no studies have shown that over-the-counter vitamin D supplements have a positive health effect on cancers. This study suggests that a newly engineered form of vitamin D (not available for purchase) may help fight pancreatic cancer when used in combination with chemotherapy. There are no results yet for its effect on other cancers. By itself, the newly engineered form of vitamin D does not fight cancer.

How can I sign up for a clinical trial on this work?
The Salk Institute does not conduct human trials, but we do partner with a variety of research institutes and hospitals to test research. Please visit clinicaltrials.gov to see what trials are open. To find information on the current trial related to this work, visit this link or email PennCancerTrials@emergingmed.com.

When will this drug be available?
Researchers are working as quickly as possible to test the safety and efficiency of this compound, which could take several years to develop into a safe, proven therapy.

How can I support this work?
To donate to the Salk Institute’s cancer research programs, please contact the Development team at giving@salk.edu.