Insulin link to pancreatic cancer

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

A large study reveals that higher insulin, insulin resistance, and diabetes are linked to an increased risk of pancreatic cancer.
Previous evidence has suggested that diabetes and pancreatic cancer are associated. But it has not really been clear whether diabetes causes the cancer, or whether it is the other way round. To shed light on this question, a team at the National Cancer Institute looked at a sub-group of participants in the Alpha-Tocopherol Beta-Carotene Cancer Prevention Project.

This study was set up to look at the impact of antioxidant vitamins on cancer risk and involves male smokers. The participants had their insulin levels measured and were checked for diabetes. Those in the top quarter for diabetes occurrence and insulin concentration had double the risk of pancreatic cancer. The researchers conclude that high insulin and insulin resistance are true risk factors for pancreatic cancer and explain the link previously seen with diabetes. It’s possible that insulin stimulates the growth of cancer cells. Lifestyle modifications aimed at reducing insulin – reducing weight, more exercise – should therefore help reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer.

Source
Journal of the American Medical Association 14th December 2005 Volume 294 pages 2872-2878