Investigating the Connection Between Diabetes and Cancer
Key Takeaways:
- There is an established link between diabetes, primarily type 2, and an increased risk of several cancers such as liver, pancreas, endometrial, colon/rectal, breast, and bladder cancer.
- Some studies suggest a possible connection between certain diabetes treatments, like specific insulins, and the development of certain cancers, though this correlation has not been conclusively proven.
- Diabetes seems to have a protective effect reducing the risk of prostate cancer.
- Lifestyle modifications, including maintaining a healthy body weight, daily physical activity, following a plant-based diet, and moderation in alcohol consumption, can significantly influence and possibly reduce one’s diabetes and cancer risk.
Research reveals the need for individuals with diabetes to be aware of another possible health concern – an amplified risk of contracting cancer. This revelation, part of a comprehensive report elucidated by a team of scholars collectively chosen by two eminent health organizations.
The link between primarily type 2 diabetes and certain cancers has been noted. However, it remains unclear whether the disease itself or common risk factors like obesity result in this elevated risk.
Potential Influence of Diabetes Treatments on Cancer Development
Prevailing studies hint at possible associations between some diabetes treatments, including specific insulins, and the emergence of certain cancers. However, evidence hasn’t conclusively established this connection, and it proves difficult to determine if insulin is the causal factor or if other diabetes-related risk factors are responsible.
According to Dr. David Harlan, head of a renowned Diabetes Center, although certain indications suggest a correlation, it’s an intricate matter as it’s not applicable to all types of cancer.
Insulin and Cancer – Is there a Connection?
Touching upon the possible link between insulin and cancer, Dr. Harlan remarked that the faint association observed necessitates further exploration. However, he stressed that it doesn’t warrant diabetic individuals altering their management methods.
He raised concerns that patients might choose to abstain from using insulin or a specific insulin out of cancer fears. “The risk of diabetes complications is a far greater concern,” Harlan underlined.
Investigating the Assocition Between Diabetes and Various Cancers
The study findings highlight links between diabetes and a higher risk for several cancers, including liver, pancreas, endometrial, colon/rectal, breast, and bladder cancer. Interestingly, the team discovered that diabetes seems to have a protective impact, reducing the risk of prostate cancer.
“There’s a compelling consensus that a linkage exists between diabetes and cancer, supported by several plausible biological associations,” remarked report’s principal author, Dr. Edward Giovannucci. High levels of circulating insulin, often present in individuals with type 2 diabetes, could promote some cancers.
The Power of Lifestyle Changes
The core takeaway from this study, according to Dr. Giovannucci, is the significant influence that lifestyle modifications could exert on one’s diabetes and cancer risk. Essential preventive measures include body weight reduction, regular exercise, a healthier diet, and no smoking.
Establishing Common Risk Factors for Chronic Diseases
Alice Bender, a nutrition communications authority, was not taken aback by the findings. She stated, “There are a great number of overlaps between chronic diseases and their risk factors”.
She echoes the sentiments of Dr. Giovannucci, maintaining that maintaining body weight, daily physical activity, and a primarily plant-based diet contribute independently to lowering the risk of certain cancers and are even more influential when practiced together. There’s also suspicion that these steps may ward off type 2 diabetes.
Furthermore, Bender insists on the importance of moderating alcohol consumption, with a maximum of one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.
Additional Information
You can explore ways to potentially inhibit cancer development through diet and exercise from the American Cancer Society.
