Pancreatic cancer linked to obesity and stress, UCLA finds

A new study from UCLA links pancreatic cancer, a highly lethal cancer, to obesity and high stress levels. Researchers found that stress-related neurotransmitters and obesity hormones can promote cancer cell growth in the pancreas. Mice on a high-fat diet developed precancerous lesions, which worsened with increased stress from social isolation. The study suggests that existing medications, like beta-blockers, could help reduce the risk of obesity- and stress-related cancers. Pancreatic cancer has a low five-year survival rate of 13%. The study highlights the connection between mental and physical health in cancer development, emphasizing the importance of diet, exercise, and stress management for prevention.