Diabetes and Cancer: What Men Need to Know

Men face a greater chance of getting cancer than women, and also a higher risk of developing diabetes. During Men’s Health Month, we explore potential links between the two diseases and share tips to help reduce your risk.

 

Over the years, evidence has shown that men have higher rates of getting cancer than women.¹ The exact reasons remain unclear, but researchers continue to investigate potential explanations. A recent research article published in the journal Cancer suggests that biological differences may play a role.²

“Statistics show that men have about a one in two chance of developing cancer during their lifetime, while women have a one in three chance.” 

― Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, “Why Are Men More Likely Than Women to Develop Cancer Over the Course of Their Lives?”

Men are also more likely to develop diabetes, a chronic blood sugar disorder. In people with diabetes, the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t use it effectively. As a result, too much sugar remains in the bloodstream.³ The American Diabetes Association reports that men have a slightly higher risk of developing diabetes than women. But it’s also important to note that both men and women who have diabetes face a greater risk for developing certain cancers.
 

Is There a Connection Between Diabetes & Cancer?

Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes have been linked to a higher risk for getting some types of cancer. Type 2 diabetes, specifically, has been linked to an increased risk of developing colorectal, breast, bladder, pancreatic, and liver cancer.⁴

Researchers are still trying to understand the possible connections between diabetes and cancer. One link may be insulin. People with type 2 diabetes tend to have increased levels of insulin. Having long-term, elevated levels of insulin may increase people’s risk for cancer, specifically breast, colorectal, and prostate cancer.⁵

Shared Risk Factors

The link between cancer and diabetes may also be explained by their many shared risk factors. Some of the same things that can lead to type 2 diabetes can also increase a person’s chances of getting some cancers.⁴ These risk factors include:

• Being male 
• Getting older
• Being inactive, or not getting enough physical activity
• Smoking
• Consuming alcohol (for men, having more than 2 drinks per day)
• Overweight or obesity

Certain races and ethnicities also face a greater risk of cancer or diabetes. African American and non-Hispanic white people have a greater chance of developing cancer, while African American, Native American, Hispanic/Latina, and Asian American/Pacific Islander people have a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes.⁴

The CDC provides a comprehensive list of risk factors for diabetes and prediabetes.

Did you know?

Risk factors for individual cancer types vary, but they often include age, gender, family history, and lifestyle habits.

Learn About Specific Cancer Types 

 

Diabetes & Prostate Cancer

Many studies have investigated associations between diabetes and prostate cancer, with interesting findings. Some research suggests that type 2 diabetes may have an inverse association with prostate cancer risk.⁶ This means that men with type 2 diabetes may have a reduced risk of developing prostate cancer.

A possible explanation is the drop in testosterone levels associated with diabetes. The American Diabetes Association reports that people with type 2 diabetes are twice as likely to suffer from low testosterone as someone without diabetes.⁷ While high levels of the hormone do not increase a man’s risk of developing prostate cancer, lower testosterone levels are associated with a lower risk of the disease.⁸

Other research has pointed to a connection between higher insulin levels and a greater risk of prostate cancer. One study found that men who had low levels of insulin were less likely to develop the disease.⁹

Prostate cancer is the second most common type of cancer among men in the United States. So, all men should be aware of the disease and associated risk factors, which include age and family history. Here’s what you can do to be proactive:

• Review the risk factors for prostate cancer.
• Become familiar with the signs and symptoms of the disease. 
• Discuss the risks and benefits of prostate cancer screening with your healthcare provider.
• If you are newly diagnosed, learn about prostate cancer treatment options & side effects management.

Get Details About Prostate Cancer Signs, Symptoms & Screening

 

Type 1 Diabetes & Cancer

The link between type 1 diabetes and cancer has been less studied, but some findings suggest specific connections. One group of researchers identified an association between type 1 diabetes and an increased risk for several types of cancer, including stomach, pancreatic, and liver cancer, but a reduced risk of breast cancer.¹⁰

In another study, researchers found that people with type 1 diabetes who received higher daily insulin doses had a greater risk of cancer.¹¹ The researchers noted that larger studies are needed to validate the potential connection.

 

How You Can Reduce Your Risk of Diabetes & Cancer 

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise can reduce your chances of developing diabetes and cancer.

The American Diabetes Association recommends: 

• Getting enough exercise (30 minutes, 5 days per week)
• Eating a nutritious diet with plenty of whole grains, fresh vegetables, and fruits
• Losing weight if you are overweight
• Not smoking (or quitting the habit)

Establishing healthy routines can also be helpful when managing diabetes or a cancer diagnosis. Eating well and getting physical activity ― even through gentle movements such as yoga or stretching ― can be effective ways to improve how you feel physically, mentally, and emotionally. 

Discover Diet & Nutrition Tips During Cancer Treatment

 

Follow Cancer Screening Guidelines

When it comes to cancer prevention and early detection, keeping up with routine cancer screenings is also important. Cancer screenings can detect certain cancers early, when they can be easier to treat. Ask your healthcare provider about recommended screening guidelines based on your age and risk factors for certain cancers.

Routine screening is available for several types of cancer. These include colorectal cancer and breast cancer, which have been linked to type 2 diabetes as a risk factor. 

Colorectal cancer screening: Colorectal cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in the United States. The 2 main types of colorectal cancer are colon and rectal cancer. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that people at average risk for colorectal cancer start screening at age 45. Some colorectal cancer screening tests, like colonoscopies, let doctors remove polyps before they can develop into cancer.

Breast cancer screening: Breast cancer is rare in men, but it does occur, primarily in men who are older than 50. The National Breast Cancer Foundation notes that men tend to have a higher mortality rate from breast cancer than women, largely because they are less likely to think a lump is breast cancer. A delay in scheduling a medical exam leads to a delay in treatment. Breast cancer is most treatable at an early stage. Regular monitoring is key to catching it early. 

Breast Cancer Detection Tip

“Breast cancer in men is usually detected as a hard lump underneath the nipple and areola.”

― National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc., “Male Breast Cancer” 

Routine screening is not currently available for several other cancer types linked to type 2 diabetes. These include bladder cancer, pancreatic cancer, and liver cancer. However, you can still be proactive by learning about each cancer type, including their risk factors, signs, and symptoms. 

 

Researchers are still learning about the links between diabetes and cancer, but one thing is clear: Following healthy habits can help reduce your risk for both diseases. Men’s Health Month is a good time to check in on your personal well-being and encourage other men in your life to do the same. Be sure to speak with your healthcare provider about any medical or health-related questions or concerns you do have.