Can a Vitamin B12 Deficiency Be a Sign of Cancer? Here’s What Experts Say

By Kaleem Afzal Khan | Impact Wealth

Vitamin B12 is essential for nerve function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell production. A deficiency can lead to fatigue, memory problems, and anemia. But emerging research suggests that, in rare cases, a vitamin B12 deficiency might also point to a more serious cause — including certain types of cancer.

Understanding Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 deficiency is typically linked to inadequate dietary intake (especially in vegans), malabsorption conditions like pernicious anemia, or gastrointestinal disorders such as Crohn’s disease and celiac disease. Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue or weakness

• Numbness or tingling

• Difficulty walking or balance problems

• Glossitis (inflamed tongue)

• Cognitive disturbances

However, doctors are now paying closer attention to how and why B12 levels fall — particularly when no clear cause is found.

Could B12 Deficiency Be a Warning Sign of Cancer?

In some cases, yes. Research indicates that certain cancers, especially those affecting the digestive system, may present with or contribute to vitamin B12 deficiency. These include:

• Gastric (stomach) cancer: Cancer in the stomach can damage cells responsible for producing intrinsic factor, a protein needed to absorb B12.

• Pancreatic cancer: May interfere with digestive enzyme production, affecting nutrient absorption.

• Colorectal cancer: Chronic blood loss or malabsorption issues in the colon can lead to B12 deficiency over time.

• Liver cancer or metastasis: The liver stores B12, and impaired liver function may reduce B12 storage or release.

According to Dr. Radhika Subramanian, a hematologist-oncologist at Mount Sinai, “Most B12 deficiencies are benign and related to diet or autoimmune causes. But persistent, unexplained deficiencies — especially in people over 50 — should prompt further evaluation.”

What the Research Says

A 2019 study published in Clinical Nutrition found that some patients diagnosed with gastric cancer had significantly lower B12 levels at the time of diagnosis, compared to control groups. While the study did not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship, it raised questions about whether B12 deficiency could be an early indicator in some patients.

Another study in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology reported that individuals with unexplained B12 deficiency were more likely to undergo diagnostic procedures — such as endoscopy — which occasionally revealed malignancies not previously suspected.

Not a Diagnostic Tool — But a Clue

Experts caution against using B12 deficiency as a standalone marker for cancer.

“This isn’t about causing panic,” says Dr. Meera Patel, a family medicine physician specializing in preventive care. “But if someone presents with persistent B12 deficiency and we’ve ruled out common causes, it’s reasonable to dig deeper — especially if they also have symptoms like weight loss, gastrointestinal discomfort, or unexplained anemia.”

Also read: Is Heel Pain a Sign of Cancer? Here’s What You Need to Know

The Role of Screening and Clinical Judgment

Medical providers often use B12 deficiency as part of a broader picture, not in isolation. A full evaluation may include:

• Complete blood count

• Intrinsic factor antibody tests

• Endoscopy or colonoscopy if GI symptoms are present

• Imaging scans depending on symptoms and history

“For patients with chronic or severe deficiencies that don’t respond well to supplements, further workup is absolutely warranted,” says Dr. Patel.

Personalized Medicine and Future Research

As medicine moves toward a more personalized model of care, subtle clinical signs like B12 deficiency may take on greater diagnostic value when combined with patient history, genetics, and risk profiles.

Ongoing studies are exploring whether changes in micronutrient levels, including B12, could be used in predictive algorithms — similar to how AI is being studied in breast cancer risk prediction.

Bottom Line

Vitamin B12 deficiency is usually benign and treatable. However, in select cases — particularly in older adults or individuals with persistent, unexplained symptoms — it could be an early sign of an underlying condition, including cancer.

If you’re experiencing symptoms or have concerns about your B12 levels, speak to your healthcare provider. Early detection remains key — both for treating deficiencies and identifying more serious health issues.

References:

• Clinical Nutrition study – PMID: 31327558

• Harvard Health on B12 deficiency overview

Also read: How Vitamin D Boosts Energy: Daily Intake, Benefits, and Supplement Tips