Topic: Health

Doctors say biotin supplements may interfere with cancer treatment and testing. This can lead to inaccurate results and delayed therapy.

Many people with cancer worry about losing their hair during treatment. One popular solution is taking biotin supplements, which are often promoted for stronger hair and nails. However, experts warn that there is little scientific evidence that these supplements help with hair or nail growth in people undergoing or recovering from cancer treatment.

Dr. Brittany Dulmage, an oncodermatologist at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center -- Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, says that biotin supplements may cause inaccurate lab results, resulting in a delay or change in patients' treatment plans.

Biotin is a vitamin that helps the body produce proteins like keratin, which supports hair, skin, and nails. But true biotin deficiency is uncommon because the vitamin is widely found in foods like fruits, vegetables, meats, eggs, and dairy products.

Dr. Dulmage advises patients to discuss their supplements with their oncologists and to stop taking them at least 72 hours before scheduled lab tests.

Why It Matters

This matters because cancer treatment can be complex, and inaccurate test results can lead to delayed or changed therapy plans. As a student in India, you may know someone who has had cancer or is currently undergoing treatment. Understanding the potential risks of biotin supplements can help you support your loved ones better.

Key Facts

• Biotin supplements may interfere with medical testing for cancer patients
• There is little scientific evidence that oral biotin helps hair or nail growth in people with cancer
• True biotin deficiency is uncommon because the vitamin is widely found in foods
• Dr. Brittany Dulmage advises patients to stop taking biotin supplements at least 72 hours before scheduled lab tests
• Biotin can affect test results for hormones like PSA, TSH, estrogen, and testosterone

Key Terms

Oncodermatologist

A doctor who specializes in the skin and hair problems caused by cancer treatment

Implications

This matters because cancer treatment can be complex, and inaccurate test results can lead to delayed or changed therapy plans. As a student in India, you may know someone who has had cancer or is currently undergoing treatment. Understanding the potential risks of biotin supplements can help you support your loved ones better.