Vitamin C deficiency can increase the risk of stomach, oesophagus, and lung cancers; check its symptoms

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient widely recognized for its role in protecting the body against oxidative stress and supporting immune health. According to a comprehensive umbrella review published in 2022 in Nutrients, low vitamin C intake or deficiency is linked to a notably higher risk of developing several cancers, including those of the stomach, oesophagus, and lungs. This review analyzed multiple studies and concluded that higher dietary or supplemental vitamin C consistently correlates with a lower incidence of these cancers. In this article, we break down the research findings in simple terms to help readers understand how vitamin C impacts cancer risk and why maintaining adequate levels is important. The oesophagus is the tube that connects your throat to your stomach. Research shows that people who consume more vitamin C have a lower chance of developing oesophageal cancer, which affects this vital passageway. A major study found that every 50 mg increase in daily vitamin C intake — roughly what you'd get from an orange—was linked to a 10-13% decrease in the risk of oesophageal cancer. This protection was seen across all main types of this cancer. Vitamin C’s antioxidant effects help neutralize harmful molecules that can damage the delicate cells lining the oesophagus, preventing changes that can lead to cancer. Stomach cancer, sometimes called gastric cancer, has been connected to dietary factors and vitamin deficiencies. Several important studies, including large-scale population-based ones like the US Cancer Prevention Study II and research conducted in high-risk regions such as Linxian, China, have found that people with higher vitamin C intake have a lower risk of developing stomach cancer. Vitamin C seems to help by acting as an antioxidant, reducing inflammation, and preventing the formation and growth of precancerous lesions in the stomach lining. Ensuring enough vitamin C may therefore slow down or even block processes that can lead to cancer in this organ. Lung cancer continues to be one of the most common and deadly cancers worldwide. A detailed analysis of 21 studies involving nearly 9,000 lung cancer patients found that higher intake of vitamin C was associated with a 17% lower risk of lung cancer overall. It also suggested that for every additional 100 mg of vitamin C eaten per day, the lung cancer risk drops by about 7%. This effect was especially prominent in men and people living in the United States. Vitamin C’s antioxidant properties likely help protect lung tissue from oxidative damage caused by pollutants, smoking, and other environmental toxins, reducing the chance that cancerous changes will develop.Vitamin C deficiency, also known as scurvy in severe cases, can manifest through several noticeable symptoms. Early signs include fatigue, weakness, and irritability. As deficiency progresses, individuals may experience gum problems such as swelling or bleeding, easy bruising, slow wound healing, and dry or rough skin. In more advanced cases, joint pain, anemia, and frequent infections may occur. Recognizing these symptoms early is important because prolonged deficiency can weaken the body’s defenses and increase vulnerability to conditions such as cancer. At the cellular level, vitamin C acts as a potent antioxidant. This means it helps to neutralize unstable molecules called free radicals, which can cause damage to DNA and other important molecules in cells—a key factor in cancer development. Vitamin C also supports the body's production of collagen, a protein that maintains the structure of tissues and helps prevent abnormal growths. Furthermore, it helps regulate the immune system and reduce chronic inflammation, which are essential for recognizing and removing cancerous or precancerous cells. These combined actions explain why vitamin C intake is linked to lower risks of several types of cancer in humans. Scientific research, including the detailed analysis in the 2022 Nutrients review, highlights the important role that sufficient vitamin C intake plays in reducing the risk of cancers such as stomach, oesophageal, and lung cancer. For most people, consuming vitamin C through a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides ample protection. However, in populations at risk of deficiency, or in those with dietary restrictions, vitamin C supplementation may be advisable to help protect against these serious health conditions. If you have concerns about your vitamin C levels or cancer risk, consulting a healthcare professional for personalized guidance can be a good step toward prevention.Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health routine or treatment.