How are Cancer and Diabetes Related? - Andrea Leonard

anti-inflammatory diet bladder cancer survivor cancer prevention cancer prevention diet diabetes diabetes prevention diet disease prevention disease prevention diet healthy diet inflammation insulin resistance stress management systemic inflammation May 13, 2025

Cancer and diabetes are two distinct medical conditions, but there are some indirect connections between them. Here are a few ways in which cancer and diabetes can be related:

Shared Risk Factors:

Obesity: Both cancer and type 2 diabetes have been linked to obesity. People with obesity have an increased risk of developing both conditions.
Physical Inactivity: Lack of physical activity is a risk factor for both diabetes and certain types of cancer.

Insulin Resistance:

Type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance, where the body’s cells do not respond effectively to insulin. Insulin resistance has been associated with an increased risk of certain cancers.

Chronic Inflammation:

Chronic inflammation is a common factor in both diabetes and cancer. Inflammation is believed to play a role
in the development and progression of various cancers, and it is also associated with insulin resistance in diabetes.

Hyperinsulinemia:

People with type 2 diabetes often have elevated levels of insulin in their blood (hyperinsulinemia). High insulin levels may promote the growth of some types of cancer cells.

Common Lifestyle Factors:

Unhealthy lifestyle choices such as a poor diet, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption are risk factors for both cancer and diabetes.

Certain Medications:

Some medications used in the treatment of diabetes, such as insulin and certain oral hypoglycemic agents, may have growth-promoting effects that could potentially influence cancer development.

It’s important to note that while there are these associations, having diabetes does not necessarily mean a person will develop cancer, and vice versa. Additionally, the relationship between diabetes and cancer can vary depending on the type of cancer.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol use, can reduce the risk of both diabetes and certain types of cancer. If you have concerns about your risk factors or health in general, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

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How are Cancer and Diabetes Related? - Andrea Leonard

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