What's Happening?
A study published in JAMA Dermatology has found that the dietary supplement nicotinamide, a form of vitamin B3, can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer. Researchers analyzed data from the Veterans Affairs Corporate Data Warehouse, comparing outcomes of patients who took nicotinamide with those who did not. The study revealed a 14% overall reduction in skin cancer risk, with a 54% reduction when taken after a first skin cancer occurrence. The supplement was particularly effective in reducing the risk of squamous cell carcinoma.
Why It's Important?
Nicotinamide's effectiveness in preventing skin cancer could lead to changes in dermatological practices, encouraging earlier intervention for individuals at risk. This could potentially reduce the incidence of skin cancer, which is one of the most common types of cancer in the U.S. The findings also highlight the importance of identifying patients who would benefit most from the supplement, as not all individuals develop multiple skin cancers.
Beyond the Headlines
The study also examined the effects of nicotinamide on immunocompromised patients, such as organ transplant recipients, where no significant risk reduction was observed. This suggests that while nicotinamide is beneficial for the general population, its efficacy may vary in specific groups, necessitating further research to tailor prevention strategies.
