Obesity and stress linked to increased pancreatic cancer risk, study finds

A new study has highlighted a concerning connection between obesity, high stress levels, and pancreatic cancer — one of the deadliest forms of the disease.

Researchers at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) discovered that stress-related neurotransmitters and obesity-related hormones activate CREB (cyclic AMP response element-binding protein), a factor known to promote the growth of pancreatic cancer cells. The findings suggest that both obesity and chronic stress may significantly increase the risk of developing this aggressive cancer.

The study, conducted on mice, found that those fed a high-fat diet were more likely to develop precancerous lesions. When stress levels were elevated through social isolation, the lesions progressed more rapidly. Notably, female mice experienced a greater impact from stress-related cancer risks than males, raising questions about potential sex-based differences in susceptibility.

Given the strong link between stress and cancer progression, researchers suggest that existing medications, such as beta-blockers — commonly prescribed for high blood pressure — could be repurposed to mitigate these effects.

Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most lethal cancer types, with a five-year survival rate of just 13 per cent in the U.S. A key challenge in treatment is the difficulty of early detection. Dr Robert Den, a radiation oncologist and chief medical officer at Alpha Tau Medical, noted that pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, limiting treatment options.

"Unlike some other cancers, there are no effective early screening tools for pancreatic cancer, so by the time a patient is diagnosed, the disease is often already advanced," Den explained. "We know that obesity fuels certain cancers and that stress can exacerbate disease progression, potentially impacting a patient’s response to treatment."

Experts emphasise the importance of lifestyle modifications in reducing pancreatic cancer risk. Dr Den highlighted the role of a healthy diet, regular exercise, and mindfulness in combating both obesity and stress.

"Exercise is particularly crucial — it helps with weight management and is also an excellent way to reduce stress," he said. "Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and spending time outdoors, can also improve both mental and physical well-being."

While there have been advancements in chemotherapy and surgical techniques, pancreatic cancer remains difficult to treat. Immunotherapies that have been effective for other cancers have not shown the same promise for this type.

"The biggest challenge is helping patients who are not candidates for surgery, as surgery remains the most effective treatment," Dr Den said.

With these findings, researchers are hopeful that targeted interventions — including lifestyle changes and potential drug repurposing — could help reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer and improve outcomes for those at higher risk due to obesity and stress.