Diabetes: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a big risk factor and major contributor to the increased incidence of endometrial cancers.
Now, add to this the alarming statistics that show a rising incidence of uterine cancer, particularly among women with type 2 diabetes.
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) provides crucial insights into the link between diabetes and uterine cancer.
PCOS is an endocrine disorder associated with metabolic syndromes, contributing to both diabetes and endometrial cancer risk.
Medical management: Medications such as metformin are instrumental in managing diabetes, reducing hyperinsulinemia, and potentially lowering cancer risk.
Diabetes: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a big risk factor and major contributor to the increased incidence of endometrial cancers. Women with T2DM have an almost 50 percent higher risk of developing endometrial cancer compared to non-diabetic women (Image: Canva)
Waking up with persistent fatigue, unexpected weight loss, and frequent urination may be a few symptoms of diabetes. Now, add to this the alarming statistics that show a rising incidence of uterine cancer, particularly among women with type 2 diabetes. It's clear that managing diabetes is not just about controlling blood sugar levels, but also about mitigating the risk of more severe conditions like uterine cancer.
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) provides crucial insights into the link between diabetes and uterine cancer. It says that diabetes mellitus (DM) significantly increases the risk and progression of endometrial cancer (EC), with patients facing twice the likelihood of developing EC. Elevated blood sugar levels in DM contribute to the growth and spread of EC cells.
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This connection involves biological mechanisms like hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, altered glucose metabolism (glycolysis), chronic inflammation, obesity, and activation of specific signaling pathways crucial in EC development.
The prevalence of diabetes mellitus has alarmingly increased in recent years, paralleling a rise in endometrial and uterine cancers, says Dr Shafalika S B, Consultant in Minimally Invasive Gynaecology at Manipal Hospital, Yeshwanthpur. She explains, “Studies have firmly established a definitive link between these conditions. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a significant risk factor and major contributor to the increased incidence of endometrial cancers. Women with T2DM have an almost 50 percent higher risk of developing endometrial cancer compared to non-diabetic women.”
Dr Shafalika explains the link between diabetes and endometrial cancer, and suggests tips to mitigate the risk:
Insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia: These hallmark features of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) contribute to high blood sugar levels and activate pathways that promote cancer cell growth. This can increase insulin-like growth factors and inflammatory markers, strengthening the development and progression of endometrial cancer.
Lifestyle factors: Sedentary lifestyle and obesity, often accompanying diabetes, further exacerbate the risk of cancer. These factors contribute to an unhealthy metabolic state that supports the growth and spread of cancer cells.
Medications: Certain medications used to treat diabetes have been linked to increased proliferation and invasiveness of endometrial cancer cells. It is important to be aware of these potential side effects and discuss alternative treatments with healthcare providers.
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Young adults and PCOS: The rise in diabetes mellitus cases among young adults correlates with a growing incidence of endometrial cancer in younger women, particularly those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is an endocrine disorder associated with metabolic syndromes, contributing to both diabetes and endometrial cancer risk.
Tips to reduce the risk:
Blood sugar control: Achieving optimal control of blood sugar levels is crucial in reducing the risk of endometrial cancer.
Positive lifestyle changes: Studies suggest that adopting a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and including high-intensity interval training (HIIT) for weight management are effective strategies for reducing cancer risk.
Medical management: Medications such as metformin are instrumental in managing diabetes, reducing hyperinsulinemia, and potentially lowering cancer risk.
