Obesity and stress can increase the risk of one of the most aggressive types of cancer, new research suggests.
Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) found that stress-related neurotransmitters and obesity-related hormones have been shown to activate CREB (circular AMP response element binding protein) and promote the growth of cancer cells in the pancreas.
In this study, mice that ate a high-fat diet were more likely to develop pre-cancerous lesions. The lesions grew even further when stress levels were also increased due to social isolation.
Common Cancer Experimental Vaccines Show Potential in Clinical Trials
Stress-related cancer risk was more pronounced in female mice.
Based on these findings, the researchers proposed to explore the use of existing drugs to reduce the risk of obesity and stress-related cancers.
Obesity and stress can increase the risk of one of the most aggressive types of cancer, new research suggests. (istock)
“Because beta-adrenergic receptors play an important role in the growth of stress-related cancers, commonly used beta-blockers, drugs prescribed for hypertension, may help reduce these effects,” the press release states.
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal types in the United States, with a five-year survival rate of just 13%.
Survival in patients with pancreatic cancer doubled with high doses of common vitamins, the study found
One of the biggest challenges of the disease is that it is often detected during late stages when the disease is already progressing, according to Dr. Robert Den, a radiation oncologist, professor of radiation oncology and chief medical officer at Alpha Tau Medical in Israel.
“Unlike some other cancers, there are no effective early screening tools, so by the time a patient is diagnosed, treatment options are often limited,” Den, who was not involved in the study, told Fox News Digital.
“Unlike some other cancers, there are no effective early screening tools, so by the time a patient is diagnosed, treatment options are often limited.” (istock)
The study strengthens strong connections between the mind and body, as linked to the development of cancer, Den said.
“We know that stress and related pathways can exacerbate disease progression and that obesity can promote certain cancers and affect patients’ responses to treatment,” he said.
Click here to sign up for our health newsletter
“In this case, we see evidence that stress and obesity can contribute to worsening pancreatic cancer, which has a major impact on both preventive and therapeutic strategies.”
Maintaining a healthy heart diet and eating moderately is essential, Den points out — not just for cancer prevention, but for overall health.
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal types in the United States, with a five-year survival rate of just 13%. (istock)
“Exercise is especially important in dealing with both obesity and stress,” he said. “Staying active is not only beneficial for your physical health, but it is also a great way to reduce stress.”
Mindfulness can play an important role in reducing the risk of cancer, doctors advised.
Click here to get the Fox News app
“Spending time outdoors can improve both mental and physical well-being, so I always encourage patients to be active, connect with nature, and find ways to prioritize overall health,” he said.
For health articles, please visit www.foxnews.com/health
Den noted that while there have been some advances in chemotherapy and surgical techniques when it comes to pancreatic cancer treatment, “there was no breakthrough yet.”
“Most immunotherapy that have been innovative with other cancers do not show the same promise for pancreatic cancer,” he said.
“Spending time outdoors can improve both mental and physical well-being, so I always encourage patients to be active, connect with nature, and find ways to prioritize overall health,” the oncologist said. (istock)
“The key challenge is finding ways to help patients who are not candidates for surgery, as surgery is the best line of defense.”
Fox News Digital has requested researchers for comment.
