The Relationship between Diabetes Mellitus and Cancer

Author: Mayank Patel, Anamika Pandey, Shamshad Ali, Preeti Verma, Prem Kumar and Vikrant Singh Chouhan

Download PDF

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and cancer are the two most common chronic diseases that increase concern due to their rising global prevalence. While they are traditionally viewed as distinct medical conditions, emerging research suggests a complex interplay between these two conditions. Diabetes mellitus is characterised by high body blood glucose levels caused by either insufficient production of insulin hormone (Type 1 DM) or insulin hormone resistance (Type 2 DM). On the other hand, cancer is characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. Recent epidemiological study indicate a link between diabetes mellitus and an increased risk of various cancers, including pancreatic, liver, breast and bladder cancer. This suggests that the metabolic and hormonal alteration in diabetes play a significant role in cancer development. Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain the potential link between these two conditions via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and WNT/beta-catenin signalling pathways. Hyperinsulinemia, hyperglycemia, chronic inflammation and obesity create microenvironments which promote cancer development in diabetic patients. Furthermore, various new cancer therapies, including PI3K inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors unveil underlying diabetes mellitus or aggravate pre-existing diabetes. So, there is a complex link between diabetes mellitus and cancer. Understanding this connection is crucial for developing strategies to reduce the potential risk of diabetes mellitus in individuals with cancer and vice versa.

Keywords

Hyperinsulinemia, Hyperglycemia, Obesity, Glucocorticoids, Immunotherapy

Conclusion

In T1DM and T2DM, the risk of various cancers and cancer mortality is elevated. On the other hand, several cancers and cancer treatments are linked to a higher risk of developing diabetes mellitus. This indicates that metabolic and hormonal changes associated with diabetes mellitus are significant contributors to the development of cancer. Several mechanisms have been suggested to elucidate the potential connection between diabetes mellitus and cancer, involving the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and WNT/β-catenin signalling pathways. Furthermore, the interplay between cancer and diabetes mellitus is influenced by factors such as obesity, oxidative stress, inflammation, elevated blood sugar levels, hyperinsulinemia, genetic predisposition and cancer treatments.

References

-

How to cite this article

Mayank Patel, Anamika Pandey, Shamshad Ali, Preeti Verma, Prem Kumar and Vikrant Singh Chouhan (2023). The Relationship between Diabetes Mellitus and Cancer. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 571-575.