Saturday, April 4th 2026
New studies suggest that the common vitamin B3 can strengthen the immune system and help it fight against one of the most aggressive types of brain cancer, writes SciTechDaily.
Edward Waldner realized something was wrong. At the age of 55, he felt constantly tired. Even after resting, the fatigue did not go away. He began to suspect sleep problems and noticed small changes in his gait. When the symptoms worsened, he decided to go to the emergency room. “The doctor told me I had a brain mass and I needed to see an oncologist,” he said. The diagnosis was glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive forms of brain cancer. Treatment usually includes surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. However, in most cases, the disease returns.
Researchers from the University of Calgary are analyzing whether high doses of vitamin B3, known as niacin, can improve outcomes when added to standard treatment.
Waldner has agreed to be part of the study.
“I have no problem helping others. I agreed. I want to help myself. Being part of this study also helps me psychologically, because I’m trying. When I got out of hospital after the operation, they told me: that’s it, this is all we can do”, he said.
The study is led by doctor Gloria Roldan Urgoiti and researcher Wee Yong. Their goal is to see if niacin can restore the function of immune cells so they can attack cancer cells better. According to the researchers, the main problem is that this cancer weakens the immune system. of cancer. I see it as a ‘battle for the brain,'” Yong explained.
The study, which is in the early clinical stages, aims to find the safest dose and see if niacin can increase the effect of chemotherapy and radiation.
Initial results from 24 patients are encouraging:
-82 percent had no worsening of the disease after 6 months
-that’s about 28 percent better than previous studies
This gives hope in a disease that remains very difficult to treat.
However, the researchers stress that caution is needed.
“Glioblastoma is the most aggressive brain cancer in adults. Survival hasn’t changed much in the last 20 years. Anything that can help should be explored, but with rules of thumb.” rules and safe monitoring,” said Roldan Urgoiti.
They also warn that high doses of vitamins, including niacin, can have dangerous side effects if not used under medical supervision.
The study will continue until 48 patients are included, with final results expected by late 2026 or early 2027.
Meanwhile, Waldner continues to live day to day. days, waiting for the results of the next analysis.
“I feel good and grateful every time I hear the word ‘stable’,” he said.
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Source: prizrenpost
