Associations Between Cholecalciferol Supplementation and Self-Reported Symptoms Among Women With Metastatic Breast Cancer and Vitamin D Deficiency: A Pilot Study. Journal Article


Authors: Maureen Sheean, P; Robinson, P; Bartolotta, MB; Joyce, C; Adams, W; Penckofer, S
Article Title: Associations Between Cholecalciferol Supplementation and Self-Reported Symptoms Among Women With Metastatic Breast Cancer and Vitamin D Deficiency: A Pilot Study.
Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To assess the potential effect of cholecalciferol supplementation to reduce symptom burden for women with metastatic breast cancer (MBC). SAMPLE SETTING: 11 clinically stable women with estrogen receptor-positive MBC were recruited from a single cancer center for this phase 1, nonrandomized study (NCT02186015). METHODS VARIABLES: Women with insufficient serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) levels qualified to receive high-dose repletion therapy. Clinical and questionnaire data on common symptoms and quality of life were obtained prior to and following supplementation. RESULTS: Serum 25(OH)D increased significantly pre- versus postintervention. Trends for improvements in endocrine symptoms, bone pain, and fatigue were observed following the intervention. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Women achieved normal serum 25(OH)D levels after eight weeks of supplementation and reported reduced symptom burden. Vitamin D may be a low-cost supportive care therapy; however, future studies should be considered.
Journal Title: Oncology nursing forum
ISSN: 1538-0688; 0190-535X
Publisher: Unknown  
Date Published: 2021