Why does diabetes increase the risk of cancer? What is the mysterious connection between them? High blood sugar increases cancer risk, and some cancers may induce diabetes or affect its progression. When these two conditions coexist, they exacerbate each other's adverse effects. Here are four reasons that will make you realize the connection!
1. Uncontrolled Blood Sugar
If diabetic patients do not control their blood sugar well, their bodies remain in a state of hyperglycemia for a long time. Cancer cells can easily obtain the glucose needed for growth, leading to a rapid increase in their growth rate. Therefore, for patients suffering from both diabetes and cancer, stabilizing blood sugar levels is crucial to reduce the speed of cancer metastasis or proliferation.
2. Decreased Immune Function
Long-term diabetes can lead to a decline in immune function. The immune cells in the body are critical in inhibiting the occurrence and development of cancer by identifying and eliminating cancer cells. Once immune function deteriorates, it effectively loses control over cancer cells.
3. Increased Insulin and Inflammation
High blood sugar increases insulin secretion, which also brings insulin-like substances that can cause inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation leads to continuous cell death and regeneration, significantly increasing the risk of cancer.
4. Poor Microcirculation
High blood sugar levels can impair the function of endothelial cells in blood vessels, deteriorating peripheral microcirculation. As a result, tissues do not receive adequate nutrients, accelerating cell mutations and increasing the chance of cancer.