How to avoid oncogenic effects of insulin

Abstract

The new reports suggests possible linking between diabetes and cancer incidence and diabetes treatments influence the risk of cancer. The excess risk of some cancers (liver, pancreas, endometrium, colon, breast, bladder) is associated with diabetes itself, what suggesting that the cancer could cause the diabetes, though usually men with diabetes have a reduced risk of prostate cancer. Diabetes and cancer are common diseases but potential links are considerably difficult. Possible mechanisms the relationship between diabetes and cancer include among others hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia and inflammation. Growth of cancer is caused by defective expression and function of the insulin and insulin- -like growth factors-I receptors and is promoted by insulin interacting with receptors. Appropriate diet, physical activity and reduction of body weight management reduce cancer risk in diabetes. Pharmacotherapy in diabetes is associated with an increased or reduced risk of cancer. Early evidence suggests that metformin is associated with a protective effect and considerable lower risk of cancer, while different other diabetes therapy options may promote tumour growth. Further new research will clarify how to avoid cancer in diabetes and oncogenic effects of insulin during the treatment of diabetes. (Diabet. Prakt. 2010; 11, 6: 197–203)