Feb 25, 2009 9:30 am US/Eastern
Researchers Find Link Between Insulin And Cancer
BALTIMORE (CBS) ―
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Researchers have found evidence that a hormone taken by millions of diabetics to regulate blood sugar levels could cause a killer disease.
CBS
Could a hormone taken by millions of diabetics to regulate blood sugar levels cause a killer disease?
Researchers are making a link between insulin and cancer, reports CBS station WJZ-TV in Baltimore.
Harriett Jessup has been battling Type 2 diabetes for 15 years. Every day, the great-grandmother takes insulin to regulate her blood sugar levels.
"In the morning, I take 40 units before I eat," she said.
In the evening, she takes 20 units.
It's a hormone taken by many of the nation's 23 million diabetics. Now, a recent study finds increased insulin levels can raise the risk of breast cancer in post-menopausal women.
"Those patients who had higher insulin levels were 46% more likely to get breast cancer," said Dr. Daliah Black.
Dr. Black is an oncologist at Mercy Medical Center. She says obesity leads to hormone imbalances that can contribute to higher than normal levels of insulin. Those increased levels have been shown to stimulate the growth of breast cells.
"Obesity is a problem, not only for diabetes and general health risk, but also has a role somehow with cancer development," she said.
Diabetes educator Kelly O'Connor recommends a healthy diet and weight management to keep insulin levels in check.
"If you're watching your carbs and maintaining a healthy weight and diet, that does control your insulin production somewhat," O'Connor said.
It's a concern for Harriett, who two years ago became a breast cancer patient. Fortunately, doctors found the cancer early. She's had a lumpectomy and several radiation treatments.
"I consider myself a survivor. I haven't had any symptoms or anything like that," she said.
Staying active is important, even if you don't have diabetes. Studies have shown 30 minutes of brisk activity every day--like walking--can reduce the risk of breast cancer. Regular exercise can also reduce the recurrence of breast cancer.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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