Dietary Supplement Nicotinamide Shows Promise in Skin Cancer Prevention

Recent research suggests that nicotinamide, a form of vitamin B3, can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer, especially in high-risk individuals, offering a promising preventive strategy.

2 min read

A recent study highlights the potential of the dietary supplement nicotinamide, a form of vitamin B3, in preventing skin cancer. Since 2015, dermatologists have recommended nicotinamide for individuals with a history of skin cancer, based on clinical data from a study involving 386 participants, which indicated that those supplementing with the vitamin developed fewer new skin cancers. However, larger scale validation has been limited as nicotinamide is available over the counter, often outside of medical records.

In the latest research published on September 17 in JAMA Dermatology, investigators analyzed records from the Veterans Affairs Corporate Data Warehouse to assess the efficacy of nicotinamide in a broader population. They examined the health outcomes of 33,833 patients who were treated with 500 mg of nicotinamide twice daily for over a month, comparing them to 21,479 untreated patients. The results showed an overall 14% reduction in skin cancer risk among those taking the supplement. Notably, for patients with a history of skin cancer, the risk reduction was more significant at 54%. The findings were particularly impactful for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, where the risk decrease was more pronounced.

According to Dr. Lee Wheless, the study’s lead author, starting nicotinamide treatment earlier could shift current prevention practices, which typically begin after multiple skin cancers develop. He emphasized the importance of identifying patients who would benefit most, as roughly half of those at risk develop multiple skin cancers. The study also included data on immunocompromised patients, such as organ transplant recipients, where early nicotinamide use was linked to fewer cases of squamous cell carcinoma, although overall risk reduction was not statistically significant.

This research supports the potential for nicotinamide to be a proactive tool in skin cancer prevention, especially for high-risk individuals. Ongoing studies aim to refine guidelines for its use and to better understand who might benefit most from supplementation.

Source: Medical Xpress