Diabetes and Cancer: What Men Need to Know

[iebpharma360]

Men face a greater chance of getting cancer than women, and also a higher risk of developing diabetes. During Men’s Health Month, we explore potential links between the two diseases and share tips to help reduce your risk. Over the years, evidence has shown that men have higher rates of getting cancer than women.1 The exact reasons remain unclear, but researchers continue to investigate potential explanations. A recent research article published in the journal Cancer suggests that biological differences may play a role.2 “Statistics show that men have about a one in two chance of developing cancer during their lifetime, while women have a one in three chance.” ― Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, “Why Are Men More Likely Than Women to Develop Cancer Over the Course of Their Lives?” Men are also more likely to develop diabetes, a chronic blood sugar disorder. In people with diabetes, the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t use it effectively.

As a result, too much sugar remains in the bloodstream.3 The American Diabetes Association reports that men have a slightly higher risk of developing diabetes than women. But it’s also important to note that both men and women who have diabetes face a greater risk for developing certain cancers. Is There a Connection Between Diabetes & Cancer? Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes have been linked to a higher risk for getting some types of cancer. Type 2 diabetes, specifically, has been linked to an increased risk of developing colorectal, breast, bladder, pancreatic, and liver Olanib (Olaparib) 150 mg cancer.4 Researchers are still trying to understand the possible connections between diabetes and cancer. One link may be insulin. People with type 2 diabetes tend to have increased levels of insulin. Having long-term, elevated levels of insulin may increase people’s risk for cancer, specifically breast, colorectal, and prostate cancer.5 Shared Risk Factors The link between cancer and diabetes may also be explained by their many shared risk factors.



Some of the same things that can lead to type 2 diabetes can also increase a person’s chances of getting some cancers.4 These risk factors include: Being male Getting older Being inactive, or not getting enough physical activity Smoking Consuming alcohol (for men, having more than 2 drinks per day) Overweight or obesity Certain races and ethnicities also face a greater risk of cancer or diabetes. African American and non-Hispanic white people have a greater chance of developing cancer, while African American, Native American, Hispanic/Latina, and Asian American/Pacific Islander people have a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes.4 The CDC provides a comprehensive list of risk factors for diabetes and prediabetes. Did you know? Risk factors for individual cancer types vary, but they often include age, gender, family history, and lifestyle habits.