Cancer cells in diabetes patients gain more strength, claims new study

News Topical, Digital Desk : Diabetes provides a favorable environment for cancer cells. A KGMU study found that insulin and IGF-1 levels in individuals with both diabetes and prostate cancer are nearly twice as high as those in normal cancer patients. Elevated HbAC levels were directly linked to cancer severity. Disturbances in lipid profiles (cholesterol, triglycerides) also increase the risk of cancer.

Study on 300 patients 

The study included 100 men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), 100 with prostate cancer alone, and 100 with prostate cancer combined with diabetes. Their hormonal and metabolic profiles revealed that diabetes makes prostate cancer more aggressive.

Excess of cancer-promoting substances 

Researchers found that diabetics have significantly higher levels of insulin, IGF-1, HbA1c, and PSA than normal men.  Insulin and IGF-1 are both hormones that stimulate cell growth. Experts believe that not all diabetics develop prostate cancer, but the risk is significantly higher than in normal men. This risk can only be reduced by controlling blood sugar, maintaining a normal weight, eating a balanced diet, and leading an active lifestyle.

Prostate Problem Symptoms

• frequent urination
• Getting up several times at night to urinate 
• slow urine flow
• intermittent urination 
• Dysuria
• Heaviness in the lower abdomen or pelvis. Sometimes prostate cancer remains completely asymptomatic in the early stages, so regular checkups are very important.

When to get a prostate exam

• Normal men after 50 years
• Diabetics after the age of 45 
• Those who have a family history of this disease should get it after the age of 40.
• A PSA test and a digital rectal exam (DRE) should be performed annually. If your blood sugar levels are uncontrolled for a long time or you are overweight, these tests should be repeated every 6-12 months. 

Easy ways to prevent

• Walk briskly for 30-45 minutes daily 
• Keeping to a healthy weight (BMI) 
• Avoiding sweet, fried, and processed foods 
• Fiber rich foods – salads, vegetables 
• Regular blood sugar and PSA testing: Experts say these measures reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

Correct lifestyle and timely check-up are essential

Dr. Preeti Agarwal (Lead Researcher and Department of Cancer, KGMU, Lucknow) states that every diabetic man should have regular prostate screening after the age of 50, even if there are no symptoms. Inflammation caused by diabetes damages cells and weakens the DNA repair system, making it easier for cancer cells to grow. The combination of diabetes and prostate cancer makes the cancer more dangerous.

Obese men experience increased estrogen, decreased testosterone, and increased insulin resistance. This condition is called metabolic syndrome. Belly fat, high blood pressure, high triglycerides, low HDL (good cholesterol), and high blood sugar increase the risk of prostate cells turning cancerous. Some research has found that medications like metformin can slow the growth of cancer cells. However, lifestyle control, weight management, and regular checkups are essential to staying healthy.

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