Studies have shown that there is a connection between diabetes and cancer. People with diabetes have a higher risk of developing certain types of cancer, including:
- Pancreatic cancer: People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop pancreatic cancer compared to people without diabetes.
- Liver cancer: People with diabetes are also at an increased risk of developing liver cancer.
- Colorectal cancer: Studies have shown that people with diabetes have a slightly higher risk of developing colorectal cancer.
- Breast cancer: Women with diabetes have a slightly higher risk of developing breast cancer.
The exact reason for the connection between diabetes and cancer is not fully understood, but there are a few theories:
- Insulin resistance: People with type 2 diabetes are often insulin resistant, which means their bodies do not respond well to insulin. Insulin resistance can lead to the production of excess insulin, which may promote the growth of cancer cells.
- Chronic inflammation: People with diabetes often have chronic low-grade inflammation, which can contribute to the development of cancer.
- High blood sugar levels: High blood sugar levels can promote the growth of cancer cells.
It is important for people with diabetes to manage their blood sugar levels and work with their healthcare provider to reduce their risk of developing cancer. This may include maintaining a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting recommended cancer screenings.