A popular vitamin has been linked to increased aggressiveness of bowel cancer

Scientists have discovered a link between elevated levels of vitamin B12 in the blood and a less favorable prognosis in patients with bowel cancer. However, the researchers believe that the excess vitamin is most likely not the cause of the worsening condition. In their opinion, aggressive tumors may more actively use B12 for their rapid growth.

As reported by BAKU.WS with reference to the journal Cancer Research Communications, researchers studied data from more than 37,000 patients with colon cancer from 108 healthcare systems worldwide. In patients with B12 concentrations above 1,000 picograms per milliliter, the median life expectancy was approximately five years, whereas with normal levels of the marker it was roughly 11 years. The risk of death in the group with high vitamin levels was approximately twice as high.

Analysis of tumor tissues showed increased activity of the MTR gene, which is involved in vitamin B12 metabolism. This may indicate that more aggressive tumors use the vitamin more efficiently to sustain their growth. B12 is essential for the body's DNA synthesis and cell division, so rapidly growing tumors may require it in larger quantities.

The scientists emphasize that the level of vitamin B12 in the blood is not equivalent to its intake through food or dietary supplements. The results obtained do not mean that the vitamin is harmful or that it should be discontinued without a doctor's recommendation. For a healthy body, B12 is important for the normal functioning of the nervous system and blood formation, and its deficiency can also lead to serious consequences.

The association between elevated B12 levels and unfavorable outcomes has previously been observed in some other types of cancer as well. According to the study authors, the indicator could be used as an additional marker when assessing the course of the disease, but further research is needed to determine its exact role.