Certain vitamin deficiencies may signal an increased risk of cancer. Low levels of vitamins C, A, and D, as well as the trace mineral selenium, have been linked to a higher risk of developing various cancers, including those of the stomach, esophagus, lungs, breast, prostate, and colon.Certain vitamin deficiencies may signal an increased risk of cancer. Low levels of vitamins C, A, and D, as well as the trace mineral selenium, have been linked to a higher risk of developing various cancers, including those of the stomach, esophagus, lungs, breast, prostate, and colon.