There is a stronger connection between diabetes and cancer than many people realize. Understanding this relationship is important, especially since diabetes not only increases your risk of developing some cancers but it’s also connected to the development of several chronic conditions, including heart disease and kidney disease.
Understanding Diabetes
Diabetes occurs when blood glucose (sugar) levels are too high. It can develop when the body either does not produce insulin or does not use insulin properly. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas that helps glucose enter cells to be used for energy. When insulin can't reach the cells where it's needed, too much stays in the bloodstream and can harm the body.
There are two main types of diabetes:
- Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder in which the body cannot produce insulin. Although it can develop at any age, it is typically diagnosed in children and young adults. Individuals with type 1 diabetes must take insulin daily to survive.
- Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. The body produces some insulin but does not use it effectively. This condition, called insulin resistance, means the cells aren’t responding well enough to the insulin to keep blood sugar levels within normal range.
While the exact cause of type 1 diabetes is unknown, it is suspected that genetics may play a role in its development. In the United States, this type of diabetes is more common in White individuals compared to those who are Black, Hispanic, or Latino.
Type 2 diabetes has a different set of risk factors than type 1 diabetes. Factors like family history, age, race, or ethnicity cannot be changed. However, there are some risk factors you can control that will help delay or prevent the onset of diabetes and its complications.
Common risk factors for type 2 diabetes include:
- Being overweight or obese
- Being 35 years old or older
- Having a family history of diabetes
- Being physically inactive
- Having prediabetes
- Belonging to certain racial or ethnic groups, including Blacks, American Indians, Asian Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, or Pacific Islanders
- Having a history of gestational diabetes during pregnancy or giving birth to a baby weighing 9 pounds or more
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of diabetes diagnoses is on the rise in the United States. In 2023, approximately 40 million people were diagnosed with diabetes. Alarmingly, about 11 million of these individuals were unaware they have diabetes! Even more concerning is that about 115 million adults are classified as prediabetic, meaning they are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future.
What Kinds of Cancer Does Diabetes Increase the Risk For?
Diabetes not only increases your risk of developing conditions such as heart disease and kidney disease, but also cancer. This is often due to the inflammation and weight gain that tend to occur because of insulin resistance. Types of cancer commonly linked to type 2 diabetes include liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer, and breast cancer.
Diabetes and Liver Cancer
People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop liver cancer compared to those who don’t have diabetes. Particularly, individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are at a higher risk. This condition affects more than 70% of people with diabetes due to insulin resistance.
Diabetes and Pancreatic Cancer
Research suggests a two-way relationship between pancreatic cancer and diabetes, meaning diabetes can act as both a risk factor for and a symptom of pancreatic cancer in newly diagnosed cases. In type 2 diabetes, the body becomes resistant to insulin, so the pancreas works overtime to produce more and more insulin to control blood sugar. The problem is that insulin also promotes cell growth, which can encourage the growth of cancer cells. This creates a harmful cycle in which diabetes can both contribute to and result from pancreatic cancer.
Diabetes and Colorectal Cancer
Diabetes and colorectal cancer share several risk factors, including obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and smoking. Additionally, diabetes is considered an independent risk factor for developing colorectal cancer. Some studies suggest that diabetic men have a significantly higher risk of developing colorectal cancer than women.
Related reading: Colorectal Cancer Risk Factors: Who Is at Risk?
Diabetes and Breast Cancer
There is a link between diabetes and breast cancer for women of all ages, both pre- and post-menopausal. Research indicates that diabetes promotes cell growth, which can lead to the development of estrogen-positive breast cancer cells. Metformin, a drug used to lower insulin levels, can be used by women who have type 2 diabetes to reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Reducing the Risk of Developing Cancer
If you’re concerned about your risk of developing either cancer or diabetes, it is important to speak with your doctor and follow recommendations for lowering your risk. Following cancer prevention guidelines often helps reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, so be sure to stay up to date with recommended cancer screenings.
Weight loss is one of the best ways to lower your risk of diabetes and many types of cancer. Eating a nutritious diet and staying physically active helps to manage your weight, which may lower your risk for cancer and other health conditions. If you are considered obese, talk to your doctor about options for reducing your weight through medication or surgery.
Related reading: 6 Ways to Help Reduce Your Risk of Cancer
Managing Diabetes During Cancer Treatment
If you are managing both diabetes and a cancer diagnosis, controlling your blood sugar level is even more critical. Here are some steps you can take to support your health:
- Eat frequent, small portions of calorie-rich and nutrient-dense foods throughout the day. Smaller meals can help stabilize your blood sugar and boost your energy levels.
- Swap sugary, processed foods for naturally sweet alternatives, such as fruits and nut butters. These healthier options can stimulate your appetite, which may be beneficial during cancer treatment; however, they should be consumed according to your dietary guidelines.
- Avoid fried, oily foods and processed meats.
- Include healthy fats in your meals by adding ingredients like avocado, olive oil, eggs, and nuts.
- Incorporate milk, dairy substitutes, or yogurt into your dishes for added nutrition.
If possible, meet with a dietician when starting cancer treatment to create a meal plan with foods you enjoy that support your recovery. Make sure to record the foods you eat and your blood sugar levels. This information can be valuable to share with your healthcare team during your next visit.
If you’re a patient at VOA, talk to your care team about nutrition counseling. Our dietician can provide specific recommendations and resources to help you navigate challenges.
Related reading: Nutrition Tips for Cancer Patients
I Have Diabetes and Cancer: Now What?
Virginia Oncology Associates provides the latest treatment options tailored to each patient. If you have diabetes and have recently been diagnosed with cancer, schedule an appointment with a VOA cancer specialist. Our team is here to answer your questions and create a cancer treatment plan that meets your specific needs. We also offer second opinions as you start making decisions.
Virginia Oncology Associates has several locations throughout Virginia and Eastern North Carolina, including Chesapeake, Elizabeth City, NC, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Suffolk (Obici and Harbour View), Virginia Beach, and Williamsburg.
