# Vitamin C Supplementation Shows Potential in Precancerous Blood Disorder Treatment Phase 2 clinical trial suggests oral vitamin C may improve survival in early-stage blood cancer patients. - **Source:** [Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily](https://brifing.si/source/0eef8637-6c5b-4e79-8f5b-6c9c6b36cf16) - **Published:** 2026-10-20 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/007be444-2c0e-4db5-87f2-0e975b738baf ## Clinical Trial Overview The phase 2 EVITA clinical trial investigated the impact of daily oral vitamin C on patients with precancerous blood disorders. Researchers enrolled 109 participants diagnosed with clonal cytopenia of undetermined significance or myelodysplastic syndrome. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study aimed to determine if correcting vitamin C deficiencies could improve patient outcomes. ## Methodology and Dosage Participants were randomly assigned to receive either 1,000 mg of oral vitamin C or a placebo daily for one year. The study was conducted across four hospitals, including Copenhagen University Hospital and Keck Hospital. This rigorous design minimized bias, ensuring that neither patients nor clinical staff knew the treatment assignments until completion. ## Key Survival Findings While vitamin C did not significantly alter the expansion rate of abnormal blood cells, exploratory analysis yielded positive results. Participants receiving the supplement showed a significantly higher likelihood of survival after approximately three years of follow-up compared to the placebo group. Researchers emphasize that these findings require verification through larger phase 3 trials. ## Biological Mechanisms Involved Vitamin C supports the activity of the TET2 enzyme, which is critical for preventing cancerous growth by regulating gene activity. Mutations in TET2 are frequently observed in leukemia and related blood disorders. By restoring normal epigenetic function, vitamin C may help stabilize gene regulation and slow the progression of abnormal blood cells. ## Addressing Deficiency Prevalence At the start of the EVITA trial, more than half of the enrolled participants exhibited insufficient vitamin C levels. Supplementation successfully normalized blood concentrations among those in the treatment group. This correction is significant because physicians currently have few options beyond monitoring patients with pre-leukemia conditions for signs of disease progression. ## Shift Toward Cancer Interception The research reflects a growing medical emphasis on cancer interception, which involves intervening before the disease becomes established. By targeting biological changes that precede leukemia, scientists hope to provide an accessible, non-invasive treatment option. This approach is particularly relevant for older adults who may not be candidates for intensive stem cell transplants. ## Historical Research Context Scientists have explored the role of vitamin C in cancer treatment for over seven decades with inconsistent results. Previous studies often focused on intravenous administration or solid tumors rather than precancerous blood conditions. The EVITA trial distinguishes itself by evaluating a standard oral dose in a controlled, prospective clinical setting for blood malignancies. ## Future Research Directions These preliminary findings provide a foundation for larger, more expansive clinical studies to confirm the observed survival benefits. Researchers are currently analyzing trial data to better understand the specific biological processes involved. While not yet a definitive clinical recommendation, the study offers a promising, accessible strategy for managing high-risk blood disorders. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/10/261019093437.htm — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._