Researchers analyzing nearly 34,000 patients found that nicotinamide use after an initial diagnosis was associated with a substantially reduced risk of subsequent non-melanoma skin cancers.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
A large observational study suggests that a commonly available form of vitamin B3 may significantly reduce the risk of recurring non-melanoma skin cancers, particularly when taken after a first diagnosis.
The research, published in JAMA Dermatology, analyzed medical records from nearly 34,000 patients within the Veterans Affairs health system who were prescribed nicotinamide, a form of vitamin B3, at a dose of 500 milligrams twice daily. Investigators examined long-term outcomes for patients with a history of basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma, the two most common forms of skin cancer.
The study was led by Lee Wheless of Vanderbilt University Medical Center and the VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System. Researchers found that, overall, patients taking nicotinamide experienced a 14 percent reduction in the risk of developing another non-melanoma skin cancer.
The most pronounced effect was seen among patients who began taking nicotinamide after their first skin cancer diagnosis. In that group, the risk of developing a subsequent basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma was reduced by 54 percent compared with similar patients who did not take the supplement.
According to the study authors, nicotinamide appears to support the skin’s ability to repair DNA damage caused by ultraviolet radiation. Sun exposure can lead to cumulative genetic damage in skin cells, increasing the likelihood of cancerous changes over time. By enhancing cellular repair mechanisms, nicotinamide may slow the accumulation of mutations that contribute to tumor development.
Researchers noted that the timing of supplementation appeared to matter. Patients with fewer prior skin cancers likely had less accumulated DNA damage, which may explain why earlier use of nicotinamide was associated with greater risk reduction. Among patients with multiple prior skin cancers, the protective effect was smaller.
The findings add to earlier clinical trial data that suggested nicotinamide could play a role in skin cancer prevention. However, the authors emphasized that there are currently no formal guidelines on when patients should begin using nicotinamide for this purpose.
Dermatologists not involved in the research said the results reinforce existing practices. Anthony Rossi of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center said the study provides additional high-quality evidence that nicotinamide can help reduce skin cancer risk in appropriate patients. Other clinicians noted that the supplement is generally well tolerated, inexpensive, and widely available without a prescription.
Experts stressed that nicotinamide should be viewed as a complementary measure rather than a replacement for established prevention strategies. Regular use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and routine skin examinations remain the cornerstone of skin cancer prevention and early detection.
The study has limitations. The patient population was drawn primarily from the VA system and consisted largely of older white men, which may limit how broadly the findings apply. As an observational analysis, the research also cannot account for every potential confounding factor. The authors said further prospective clinical trials in more diverse populations would help confirm the results.
Still, researchers said the findings suggest that early use of nicotinamide after a first non-melanoma skin cancer diagnosis could be a practical strategy to reduce recurrence risk when combined with standard preventive care.
Source: Natural News
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