Patients who began taking nicotinamide, a​ form of vitamin B3, after a ‍first skin cancer diagnosis experienced a more than 50% reduction ⁣in ​their risk of developing subsequent cancers, according to a recent‌ study.the research, published in JAMA ‌Dermatology on February 14, ⁣2024, followed over‍ 33,000 veterans.

The study, led by Lee Wheless, ⁣M.D., Ph.D., assistant professor of dermatology⁣ at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, found⁣ that ‍patients initiating nicotinamide treatment after their initial skin‍ cancer diagnosis saw a ‌54% decrease in risk. The ⁤benefit diminished significantly with delays in starting the supplement,highlighting the importance of early intervention.

Study Details​ and Methodology

Researchers ​analyzed data from 33,242 ⁤veterans ⁣diagnosed with basal cell⁣ carcinoma or squamous⁣ cell ‌carcinoma-the two most common ​types of skin cancer-between 2005 ⁢and 2018. the study ⁤tracked whether ⁣patients initiated nicotinamide supplementation after their initial diagnosis and ​monitored for the⁤ growth of subsequent skin cancers. ⁤Data was ​obtained from the Veterans Affairs healthcare⁣ system.

The study controlled for factors such as age,sex,race,smoking ​status,and other ‌medical conditions to isolate the effect of​ nicotinamide. The researchers noted that approximately⁣ 75% of dermatologic surgeons already recommend nicotinamide for skin cancer prevention, but lacked clear guidance on optimal timing.

Why Timing Matters

The study’s findings underscore the importance of initiating nicotinamide supplementation as soon as possible after a skin cancer diagnosis. The protective effect was most pronounced ⁤in⁣ patients who started ⁢taking the supplement shortly⁣ after their first cancer ‍was detected. The benefit decreased⁢ substantially for those who waited until they had developed multiple skin cancers.

“This study provides strong evidence ‍that nicotinamide can be‍ a valuable tool⁤ in