Vitamin D could cut the risk of dying from cancer, according to research which suggests sunshine and supplements could save lives.

Scientists warned that modern lifestyles could be increasing the risk of disease, with ever longer hours spent indoors, or in the shadow of skyscrapers.

Research on almost 80,000 adults by Michigan State University and Hurley Medical Center found that taking a supplement for at least three years was associated with a 13 per cent drop in mortality from all cancers.

Another study by Madrid University Hospital found that taking a daily pill along with a statin was linked to a 38 per cent reduction in deaths from prostate cancer. Scientists from said the effects appeared to be independent of each other, suggesting that both the medication and the vitamin boosted survival.

A third study by Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, in Pittsburgh, suggested that a deficiency of vitamin D could double the risk of pancreatic cancer.

Researchers said GPs should prescribe supplements to ensure the population increased its intake of vitamin D.