Individual research recommendation details

Recommendation ID

NG14/09

Question

Vitamin D supplementation: In people with stage I to III melanoma does vitamin D supplementation improve overall survival?

This should be investigated in a placebo controlled randomised trial. Secondary outcomes should include disease specific survival and toxicity, including the development of renal stones and hypercalcaemia.

Any explanatory notes
(if applicable)

It has been reported that suboptimal levels of vitamin D at diagnosis are common in people with melanoma from the north of England and that higher levels are associated with lower melanoma related mortality. However, vitamin D levels are higher in leaner, fitter people and the nature of the relationship between vitamin D levels and melanoma survival is unclear.

There are 2 adjuvant trials of vitamin D supplementation listed as active currently, 1 in Italy and 1 in Australia. However, there are many uncertainties about the design of vitamin D trials, which might become clearer in the next few years. These include the dose of vitamin D, use of concurrent aspirin therapy and the baseline level at which vitamin D supplementation would be started.

Source guidance details

Comes from guidance

Melanoma: assessment and management

Number

NG14

Date issued

July 2015

Other details