Summary:

(OrganicJar) Nicotinamide (Vit B3), a vitamin found in common foods like meats, nuts and grains may provide the next advance in skin cancer prevention, according to new research from the University of Sydney.

Tests show the vitamin prevents damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation by protecting the immune system.

“UV radiation in sunlight suppresses the skin’s immune system and makes it more susceptible to skin cancer,” Prof. Damian said. “Our research found that nicotinamide can prevent the immunosuppressive effects of UV by energizing cells so they maintain their immunity.”

“Sunscreens currently provide very good protection against UVB, which causes sunburn and skin cancer, but are less effective in protecting against UVA, which can also cause skin cancer,” she said. “Nicotinamide is relatively cheap to produce, so there is potential for example to incorporate it into sunscreen to boost its effectiveness against UVA.”

Source: Clinical Oncolgoical Society of Australia