Dietitian Course: The Association Between B12 Status And Cancer

THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN B12 STATUS AND CANCER

Vitamin B12 (B12) is an essential nutrient in the synthesis of DNA, protein and fat, metabolism of carbohydrates, synthesis of all blood cells, and myelin synthesis. Inadequate B12 status is a worldwide problem. In Western societies, such as the United States, B12 deficiency is especially high among the elderly, diabetic patients using metformin, vegetarians, patients who have had a surgery with general anesthesia, those who have undergone chemotherapy, individuals taking anti-acids, those infected with Helicobacter pylori, and many others. Anyone of these individuals can maintain adequate B12 by using supplements and/or receiving B12 injections. However, many health professionals fear that using B12 supplements and/or maintaining high serum B12 may lead to cancer. Furthermore, some physicians refuse to recommend B12 replacement therapy to B12-deficient cancer patients fearing that such measure would enhance cancer growth. This presentation will review the most up-to-date evidence regarding the association between B12 and a variety of cancer types including pancreatic, lung, prostate, colorectal, gastric, esophageal, and others.

Upon successful completion of this one-hour course, the participant should be able to:

Gain a better understanding of vitamin B12 function, structure, and sources.

Summarize individuals and groups at risk of B12 deficiency.

Discuss available scientific findings regarding B12 intake, status, and the use of B12 supplements and risk of cancer.

Make evidence-based recommendations regarding B12-replacement therapy and maintenance.

Live Event Date: Nov 24, 2020

Expiration Date: Nov 24, 2023

Performance Indicators/Learning Objectives: 4.2.6, 6.2.5, 6.3.8, 8.3.6

Target Audience: RDs, DTRs, Health Professionals

Number of Credits: 1.0

Level(s): 1, 2

Total Cost: $18 ($18.00 per credit)

About the Presenter: Roman Pawlak, Ph.D, RD

Associate Professor of Nutrition at East Carolina University. Authored: 'Vitamin B12. Combating the epidemic of deficiency' (published in English and Polish), 'Vegan/vegetarian mother and her baby' (published in English, Polish and Czech), 'I am the LORD who heals you' (published in English, Russian and Japanese), 'Forever young. Secrets of delaying aging and living disease free' (published in English and Polish), 'Healthy diet without secrets' (published in English and Polish), 'In defense of vegetarianism' (published in English and Polish), 'Diabetes. How to prevent it? How to cure it? How to prevent diabetes complications' (published in Polish), 'Diet – facts and myths' (published in Polish). Published in the best American and international nutrition journals, including, American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, European Journal of Nutrition, Nutrition Reviews, American Journal of Preventive Medicine. Lectured in five continents, including North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.

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