Vitamin C treatment could double survival rates for pancreatic cancer patients

In a groundbreaking study conducted at the University of Iowa, researchers tested the effects of high-dose intravenous vitamin C in conjunction with chemotherapy on patients suffering from late-stage metastatic pancreatic cancer. This phase 2 trial involved 34 participants and demonstrated that administering 75 grams of vitamin C three times per week significantly improved overall survival, extending it from an average of eight months to 16 months. The study, which was approved by the FDA, reflects over two decades of research focused on understanding the potential of vitamin C in cancer treatment. Lead researcher Joseph Cullen, MD, highlighted that the high doses of ascorbate not only improved survival but also enhanced patients' tolerance to chemotherapy. This allowed for larger doses and prolonged treatment periods, ultimately resulting in more effective tumor cell destruction. The chemical action of ascorbate at these higher doses, where it generates hydrogen peroxide, contributes to its efficacy in combating cancer cells, according to Cullen. Experts in oncology noted the study's promise, acknowledging that smaller trials like this often yield encouraging outcomes. Dr. Joshua Strauss, an oncologist at Advanced Care Oncology and Hematology Associates, pointed out the potential for vitamin C to enhance chemotherapy effectiveness and improve quality of life for patients, as it is both inexpensive and well-tolerated. Despite the positive results, researchers acknowledged limitations of the study, including the small sample size and lack of diversity among participants. Nevertheless, these findings represent a significant step forward in the search for new cancer therapies, and both Strauss and Cullen expressed optimism for future research and development in enhancing treatment strategies for one of the deadliest cancers.