Vitamin C trial shows potential survival benefits in precancerous blood disorders

A phase 2 clinical trial, known as the EVITA trial, has investigated the impact of daily 1,000 mg oral Vitamin C supplementation on individuals with precancerous blood disorders, including clonal cytopenia of undetermined significance (CCUS) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS).

Led by the Van Andel Institute-Stand Up To Cancer Epigenetics Dream Team, the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involved 109 participants. While the intervention did not significantly alter the expansion rates of abnormal blood cell clones, researchers observed changes in cytokine levels related to inflammation and immune signaling.

Notably, an exploratory analysis indicated a potential survival signal; after approximately three years of follow-up, participants receiving Vitamin C were significantly more likely to be alive than those in the placebo group. Due to these findings, researchers suggest the need for larger-scale phase 3 clinical trials to further investigate these outcomes.