Dr. Pauling’s research into Vitamin C for Cancer and the common cold has been criticized for years. As reported in The People’s Pharmacy, the fact that he received a Nobel prize for Chemistry and for Peace did not stop his critics from vicious attacks.
Even nutritionists entered the arena insisting that adding daily vitamin C is a waste of money.
Oncologists were more critical as one doctor wrote that some people question whether he has slightly lost his mind.
The February 6, 2014, journal Science used the term “embarrassing” when referencing several clinical trials that disproved his theories.
Vitamin C and Cancer
The interest in vitamin C for cancer has grown steadily beginning in the 1980s. Biochemical understanding has added credence to Dr. Pawling’s theory.
Although chemical reactions to vitamin C in the body have been known for over half a century, general practitioners were not convinced that it was effective.
It appears that physicians were influenced by biased presentations in journals and textbooks.
New Evidence
University of Iowa researchers conducted a clinical trial using high-dose vitamin C also referred to as “ascorbic” combined with standard treatment and administered intravenously. The control group only received the standard treatment.
The recipients were diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer that had spread (metastasized).
Promising Results
Vitamin C impressively doubled the survival time on average from eight months to sixteen months. Patients also reported feeling better with the addition of vitamin C.
Joseph Cullen MD and Bryan Allen MD professors of surgery and oncology at Iowa University together with their colleagues have been studying hard-to-treat cancers and the effect of high-dose vitamin C for two decades.
The doctors report significant progress through the years. Reference is made to a Phase 1 trial for pancreatic cancer where high dose vitamin C was combined with radiation. Three patients are still alive at the nine-year mark.
The team reports that their results indicate robust antitumor activity.
The team’s vitamin C research can be described as producing favorable results for several aggressive cancers such as glioblastoma and pancreatic cancer.
The doctors suggest that pharmacological ascorbate has potential as a radiosensitizer for cancer therapy as well as a radioprotector for normal tissue.
Sensitization in cancer treatment refers to the use of chemicals that cause cancer cells to become susceptible to chemotherapeutic drugs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, despite years of denial, vitamin C research has survived.
Source: The People’s Pharmacy
Editor’s Note: Get Involved
Cancer doesn’t discriminate. WHATNEXT and its partners are interested in amplifying the voices of those from all identities and backgrounds. If you have a cancer journey to share, reach out here to learn more about how your voice can help spread awareness and inspire individuals from all walks of life.
cancer pancreatic cancer Vitamin C
Last modified: March 11, 2025
