Nicotinamide lowers skin cancer risk. New data from an analysis of 33,000 patients.
Nicotinamide, a vitamin B3 derivative available over the counter, has attracted dermatologists' attention for years as a skin cancer prevention aid. A recent study published in JAMA Dermatology provides strong evidence of its effectiveness, based on an analysis of data from over 33,000 patients treated in the Veterans Affairs system. The results suggest that the supplement may significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer recurrence, particularly squamous cell carcinoma.
Nicotinamide, a derivative of vitamin B3, has been recommended by dermatologists since 2015 to help prevent skin cancer. However, a lack of large-scale studies confirming these recommendations has been problematic, primarily because the supplement is available over the counter and not always recorded in patient medical records.
The breakthrough comes from a new study published September 17 in JAMA Dermatology . The researchers used data from the Veterans Affairs (VA) corporate information magazine, where nicotinamide is listed on the official drug formulary. The analysis included 33,833 patients who received 500 mg of nicotinamide twice daily for at least 30 days after their first skin cancer diagnosis.
In a group of 12,287 patients taking nicotinamide, the risk of a subsequent skin cancer diagnosis was reduced by 14% compared to 21,479 people who did not use the supplement. A particularly pronounced effect was observed in patients with a first skin cancer diagnosis, with the risk of recurrence reduced by up to 54%. The greatest reduction was observed in squamous cell carcinoma of the skin.
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"There is no information about starting nicotinamide treatment for cancer prevention in general. These results have been modified by our practice, from starting treatment in those who have developed dissemination to starting earlier," said Dr. Lee Wheless , assistant professor of dermatology and medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and a physician at the VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System.
He also emphasized that the greatest benefits were observed in people who had previously had skin cancer.
The team also analyzed the results of 1,334 solid organ transplant recipients, who are at particularly high risk of developing skin cancer. In this group, nicotinamide supplementation was not associated with a significant reduction in overall risk, although a reduction in the incidence of squamous cell carcinoma was noted with early treatment initiation.
The new data confirm earlier speculation about nicotinamide's potential in preventing skin cancer. However, the researchers emphasize that further analyses are needed to better determine which patients benefit most and which regimens yield the best results from using the supplement.
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