Pancreatic Cancer, Diabetes, and the Power of Lifestyle Choices

Pancreatic cancer is a formidable adversary in the world of oncology, known for its aggressive nature and often late-stage diagnosis. It's projected that by 2030, pancreatic cancer will become the second most common cancer in Australia, highlighting the urgency of understanding its risk factors and prevention strategies.

The Link Between Diabetes and Pancreatic Cancer:

One significant risk factor for pancreatic cancer is diabetes. Studies have shown that individuals with diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes for 5 year or over, are at an increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer. This connection may be due to the changes in insulin production and metabolism associated with diabetes.

The Role of Lifestyle Choices:

While genetics and age play a role in cancer risk, lifestyle factors can significantly influence the likelihood of developing certain types of cancer, including pancreatic cancer. 

Here are two key lifestyle factors that have garnered attention:

1. Intermittent Fasting:

Intermittent fasting (IF) is an eating pattern that cycles between periods of fasting and eating. It has gained popularity for its potential health benefits, including improved insulin sensitivity. By reducing insulin resistance, IF may help lower the risk of type 2 diabetes, potentially decreasing the associated risk of pancreatic cancer.

2. Anti-Inflammatory Eating:

Chronic inflammation is a known driver of various diseases, including cancer. Consuming an anti-inflammatory diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and foods with anti-inflammatory properties (such as fatty fish and nuts) may help reduce inflammation in the body. This dietary approach could contribute to lowering the risk of cancer, including pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic cancer is a complex disease influenced by multiple factors, including genetics, diabetes, and lifestyle choices. While there's no guaranteed method for preventing cancer, adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes intermittent fasting and anti-inflammatory eating may contribute to reducing the risk of pancreatic cancer and improving overall well-being. Always consult with healthcare professionals for personalised guidance and early detection strategies.

Your Ultimate Self program can guide you in anti-inflammatory eating, Intermittent fasting, injury recovery and movement planning, all whilst getting you in the right mindset to keep this up forever.

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References:

•  American Cancer Society. (2021). Pancreatic Cancer Risk Factors. Link
•   Luo, J., Iwasaki, M., Inoue, M., Sasazuki, S., Otani, T., Ye, W., & Tsugane, S. (2007). Body Mass Index, Physical Activity and the Risk of Pancreatic Cancer in Relation to Smoking Status and History of Diabetes: A Large-Scale Population-Based Cohort Study in Japan—The JPHC Study. Cancer Causes & Control, 18(6), 603–612.
•  Australian Journal of General Practice. https://www1.racgp.org.au/ajgp/2019/december/pancreatic-cancer#:~:text=It is the fourth leading,of cancer death by 2030.
•  Patterson, R. E., Laughlin, G. A., LaCroix, A. Z., Hartman, S. J., Natarajan, L., Senger, C. M., … Gallo, L. C. (2015). Intermittent Fasting and Human Metabolic Health. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 115(8), 1203–1212.
• https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/cancer/cancer-data-in-australia/contents/cancer-data-commentaries/how-are-pancreatic-cancer-rates-changing#
•  https://pancan.org/facing-pancreatic-cancer/living-with-pancreatic-cancer/diet-and-nutrition/diabetes-and-pancreatic-cancer/#:~:text=Diabetes may be either a,who do not have diabetes.