Vitamin B12, one of the most vital nutrients in the human body, helps the formation of DNA—the genetic material present in the body cells. It serves as an essential entity in maintaining healthy nerves. Unlike vitamin D which the body produces on its own, vitamin B12 has to be solely acquired alone from the food or supplements. A deficiency in vitamin B12 derails bodily functions and causes anemia.
This article will have a closer look into vitamin B12 and its importance. We will investigate whether vitamin B12 deficiency can be a sign of an underlying cancer. In addition, the problem that vitamin deficiencies can bring forth and the treatments available for the same will also be discussed. We also plan to address some of your pertinent questions linked to vitamin B12 deficiency.
So, let us begin without any further delay.
Understanding Vitamin B12 Deficiency
A water-soluble vitamin, vitamin B12, plays an important role in DNA production. Apart from aiding blood cell formation, it also helps in protein metabolism. The body also relies on vitamin B12 for carrying out its normal functions: producing red and white blood cells, forming platelets, etc.
Another function that vitamin B12 discharges is keeping the central nervous system up and running. Megaloblastic anemia, a condition that causes tiredness and weakness, can be prevented by vitamin B12 intake. Furthermore, vitamin B12 prevents dementia, cuts short the chances of heart failure, and protects against autoimmune disorders.
Now, answering the question of what causes a deficiency of vitamin B12 can be a tricky one. Many a time, it has been attributed to the problems of digestion although some medications and exposure to toxins also contribute to vitamin B12 deficiency. Proton pump inhibitors and accidental exposure to nitrous oxide can affect the absorption of vitamin B12.
Diet modifications—especially taking dairy products and fortified foods can help recover from vitamin B12 deficiency. Consuming adequate amounts of greens and seafood also seems to benefit. However, in worst-case scenarios, injections and blood transfusions are relied upon to bypass the absorption barriers.
Can vitamin B12 deficiency be a sign of cancer?
Normally, vitamin B12 deficiency does not point towards cancer. However, we cannot set aside the possibility until and unless studies are undertaken to find out its causes. In a majority of cases stomach and pancreatic cancers are common to cause vitamin B12 deficiency. It is because the digestive process is affected and therefore absorption of this vitamin does not take place.
In cases of pernicious anemia, where the immune system attacks stomach cells, resulting in stomach cancers, vitamin B12 deficiency plays a major role. Leukemia aka blood cancer affects the bone marrow’s ability to produce blood cells causing a drop in vitamin B12. Besides, neurological diseases like peripheral neuropathy: numbness and weakness in the extremities, and vision problems can also develop in people who lack vitamin B12.
Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms
Some common symptoms associated with Vitamin B12 deficiency are headaches, palpitations, and loss of appetite. Further, one may feel indigestion, exhaustion, and shortness of breath. It is mandatory to take medical help immediately if these problems persist; failing to do so would result in dire consequences.
Treating a vitamin B12 deficiency
As hinted earlier, treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency varies in nature. Vitamin B12 injections for a while help improve the count. Vitamin B12 pills and nose spray also serve their purpose in offering positive results.
Blood transfusion in rare cases seems to be a better alternative in worsened conditions as it can produce much more effective and fast-paced results. For mild vitamin B12 deficiency, a nutritionist can help solve the issue by prescribing a well-balanced diet.
Conclusion
In this article, we have had an overview of vitamin B12 and the factors that lead to its deficiency. We also pondered on whether its absence could be a marker for cancer. In the preceding sections, we listed some cancers that can cause vitamin B12 deficiency.
The symptoms and treatments associated with it also came up for discussion. It is fair to conclude that while vitamin B12 deficiency cannot always be a sign of cancer, the condition should be investigated to rule out any chances.
FAQs
Stomach cancer, pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer, prostate cancer are all cancers related to vitamin B12 deficiency.
A decrease in dietary intake and problems with absorption are the two main causes of vitamin B12 deficiency.
The two primary stages are low levels of vitamin B12 in the blood and the cells. Followed by the last two stages—biochemical deficiency and macrocytic anemia.
Pernicious anemia is found to be the principal cause of vitamin B12 deficiency.
A deficiency in folate and vitamin B6 is also linked to cancer development.
