Recent research involving more than 33,000 US veterans highlights that nicotinamide, a form of vitamin B3, may significantly reduce the risk of developing skin cancer. Non-melanoma skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, are the most frequently diagnosed cancers worldwide, linked to sun exposure and aging. Current prevention relies on sun avoidance and sunscreen, yet rates keep rising. The latest findings show that patients taking 500mg of nicotinamide twice daily experienced a 14% lower risk of new skin cancers. The protective effect was strongest when started immediately after a first diagnosis, reducing the risk of further cancers by 54%. This simple, low-cost supplement supports skin repair after UV damage, lowers inflammation, and aids the immune system in clearing abnormal cells, offering a practical addition to existing prevention strategies.
Strong Protection When Started Early After Diagnosis
The study compared over 12,000 patients who took nicotinamide for more than a month with more than 21,000 who did not. Those supplementing showed a 14% reduction in developing any new skin cancer. The benefit was most striking when nicotinamide was started soon after a first skin cancer diagnosis, cutting the risk of additional cancers by 54%. This protective effect weakened if supplementation began only after multiple recurrences, emphasizing the importance of early action. The benefit applied to both main skin cancer types but was especially strong for squamous cell carcinoma, which can be more aggressive and dangerous.
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