In order to bring you the best possible user experience, this site uses Javascript. If you are seeing this message, it is likely that the Javascript option in your browser is disabled. For optimal viewing of this site, please ensure that Javascript is enabled for your browser.
 EMAIL TO FRIEND     |      PRINTER FRIENDLY     |    
          advertisement

Cancer Risk & Diabetes

- Summary
- About diabetes and cancer
- Cancers related to diabetes
- Prevention methods
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
Nikheel Kolatkar, M.D.

Summary

Diabetes mellitus is a disorder in the body's ability to break down blood sugar (glucose).Cancer is a broad term used to describe more than 200 diseases characterized by abnormal cell division and the destruction of healthy body tissues. Individuals with diabetes are more likely than nondiabetics to develop certain types of cancer, according to authorities such as the National Institutes of Health.

Studies linking cancer and diabetes are often tentative and sometimes controversial. However, research most strongly associates diabetes to increased risk for developing cancers of the:

  • Colon and rectum
  • Pancreas
  • Liver
  • Endometrium (lining of the uterus)

For example, people with diabetes are up to 40 percent more likely to develop colorectal cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. There is also a possible association between diabetes and cancers of the mouth, esophagus, stomach, kidneys, bile duct, skin, breasts, cervix, ovaries, prostate and other organs.

Though the relationship between diabetes and cancer remains unclear, experts believe that hyperinsulinemia (elevated insulin levels) and obesity in people with diabetes and prediabetes are risk factors. In addition, some cancers (carcinoid tumors) and cancer treatments can cause secondary diabetes or hinder control of glucose (blood sugar).

The lifestyle factors commonly recommended for prevention and control of diabetes, such as quitting smoking, controlling weight, getting regular exercise and eating a proper diet, are also helpful in delaying or preventing certain forms of cancer. Diabetic patients are advised to ask their physician about getting screened for some cancers earlier and more frequently than individuals without diabetes.

page 1 of 5 | Next Page




Review Date: 03-20-2007
Video
The Myths and Facts of Diabetes
Dr. Nancy Snyderman explains what the disease does to your body and...
TODAY: What's in your genes?
Meredith talks to Dr. Snyderman about how gene testing is changing...
Can lack of sleep make you fat?
Sept. 18 - How not getting enough zzz's can make you gain weight.
Gastric Bypass Could Cure Type-2 Diabetes
Gastric bypass surgery not only reduces a person's weight, it may...
Diabetic Retinopathy
Why eye examinations are so important for diabetics
Diabetes
Can you manage diabetes with just diet changes?

Advice from Dr. Nancy Snyderman

Dr. Nancy Snyderman

Helpful tips and information on weight loss

Get answers from an expert
advertisement
advertisement

YourTotalHealth      

Home  |  Health Centers  |  Health A-Z  |  Staying Healthy  |  Diet & Fitness  |  Woman & Family  |  Pregnancy  |  Community  |  

also on iVillage: Pregnancy & Parenting  |  Beauty & Style  |  Home & Garden  |  Food  |  Weddings  |  Love  |  Entertainment  |  NeverSayDiet

Terms of Service  |  Privacy Policy  |  Site Map  |  Newsletters  |  Feedback

Copyright (c) 2000-2009 iVillage Inc. All rights reserved. The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.