Supplements
Many people have taken vitamins and other supplements since childhood, in the hopes of staying healthy. For many, taking supplements is an every day habit, even before their cancer diagnosis.
Once you’ve been diagnosed with a cancer such as mesothelioma and are undergoing treatment, the opinions of whether or not to continue with supplements are divided. Some doctors encourage the supplements to continue while others say "absolutely not!"
The Controversy
Difficulties arise in determining how cancer cells and chemicals used for cancer treatments react to supplements. This is especially true for those classified as "antioxidants", which are thought to prevent certain types of cancers from occurring.
According to the American Cancer Society and other similar organizations, medical professionals note that because some chemotherapy drugs produce free radicals in order to kill cancer cells, taking large doses of antioxidant supplements may block the cell death process (apoptosis). Some also fear that antioxidants may increase tumor resistance to chemotherapy or affect the rate of recurrence of the cancer.
On the other hand, there are researchers who have found that taking antioxidants during chemotherapy enhances the beneficial effects of the therapy. This may also be true with radiation therapy.
What Should I Do?
Most doctors agree that antioxidants (Vitamin A, C, E, and Selenium) are important, even after you’ve been diagnosed with cancer. Doctors prefer that you get them by eating the right foods.
Other supplements, including calcium, beta-carotene, and the "B" vitamins have proven not to be beneficial to cancer patients. Always tell your doctor what you’re taking, especially if you’re currently undergoing radiation or chemotherapy or are taking prescribed medications for your cancer or any other disorder.
Last modified: December 12 2007.
