Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) have found that obesity and chronic stress may contribute to the early growth of pancreatic cancer, one of the deadliest cancers.
The study, published in Molecular Cancer Research, suggests that these factors work together to accelerate the disease, which has a five-year survival rate of just 13%.
According to the findings, stress-related neurotransmitters and obesity-related hormones activate a key protein known as CREB (cyclic AMP response element-binding protein), which promotes the growth of pancreatic cancer cells.
The study demonstrated this effect in preclinical models, showing that mice fed a high-fat diet developed precancerous pancreatic lesions. When the mice were also subjected to social isolation, a well-known stress inducer, the lesions progressed even further, indicating that stress and obesity may be working in tandem to drive cancer development.
The impact of stress appeared to be more pronounced in female mice. Researchers speculate that biological factors, including estrogen levels and increased activity of β-adrenergic receptors, could make women more vulnerable to stress-related cancer risks. While the study focused on preclinical models, its findings suggest that lifestyle factors may play a far more significant role in pancreatic cancer development than previously thought.
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most difficult cancers to detect and treat. Unlike other cancers, there are no widely accepted early screening methods, meaning that most patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage when treatment options are limited.
Dr. Robert Den, a radiation oncologist and professor of radiation oncology who was not involved in the study, noted that this research underscores the critical connection between mental and physical health in cancer progression.
“Stress and its associated pathways can exacerbate disease progression, and we know that obesity fuels certain cancers, potentially impacting a patient’s response to treatment,” Den explained. “In this case, we’re seeing evidence that stress and obesity may contribute to the worsening of pancreatic cancer, which has major implications for both prevention and treatment strategies.”
Researchers believe that existing medications could offer a potential way to mitigate these risks. Since β-adrenergic receptors play a crucial role in stress-related cancer growth, widely prescribed beta-blockers, which are typically used to treat high blood pressure, may have the potential to counteract the harmful effects of stress on pancreatic cancer development.
While pharmaceutical interventions remain a topic for further study, experts continue to emphasize the importance of lifestyle changes. Dr. Den highlighted the role of a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management techniques such as mindfulness in reducing overall cancer risk.
“Maintaining a heart-healthy diet and eating in moderation are essential—not just for cancer prevention but for overall health,” he said. “Exercise is particularly crucial in addressing both obesity and stress. Staying active is not only beneficial for physical health but also an excellent way to reduce stress.”
The findings also reinforce the growing recognition that chronic stress is more than just a psychological burden—it may have serious consequences for long-term health. As researchers continue to explore the connection between stress, obesity, and cancer, the study serves as yet another warning about the importance of lifestyle choices in disease prevention.