The role of vitamin D in the carcinogenesis, prevention and intervention of colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is a common malignant tumor in China, and its pathogenesis involves many aspects. Recently, both epidemiology and preclinical studies support that vitamin D deficiency might be one of the risk factors for colorectal cancer, and vitamin D supplement might reduce the incidence of colorectal cancer and even improve the efficacy of anti-tumor therapy. The ASCO meeting also has discussed the prospective studies. This article reviews the correlation between vitamin D and colorectal cancer occurrence and prevention, and discusses the role of vitamin D in the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer. Key words: Colorectal neoplasms; Vitamin D; Prevention; Intervention