Diabetes mellitus linked to increased risk of head and neck cancers

Diabetes Mellitus Linked to Increased Risk of Head and Neck Cancers According to a recent study, diabetes mellitus (DM) can pose an increased risk for head and neck cancers.

In people with diabetes mellitus, blood sugar (glucose) levels are abnormally high because the body does not produce enough insulin to meet its needs. If unchecked, the condition can lead to retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy or nerve damage. Now, a new study says that patients with diabetes might face nearly a 50% increased risk of developing head and neck cancers.

Cancers of the head and neck include cancers of the oral cavity, larynx, pharynx, salivary glands and nose/nasal passages. Typical symptoms include a lump or sore that does not heal, a sore throat that does not go away, difficulty swallowing, and a change or hoarseness in the voice. Rehabilitation and regular follow-up care are important parts of treatment for patients with head and neck cancers (HNC). It is estimated that approximately $3.6 billion is spent in the United States each year on the treatment of HNC. According to the research study published in JAMA Otolaryngology, patients with diabetes have twice the risk of developing head and neck cancers. The researchers noted that the risks of developing oral cavity cancer, oropharyngeal cancer, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma were significantly higher in these patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) than in controls.

Using Taiwan’s Longitudinal Health Insurance Research Database, the researchers compared 89,089 patients diagnosed as having diabetes in 2002 and 90,000 matched controls without diabetes. It was found that the incidence of head and neck cancer was 1.47 times higher in patients recently diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. The most prevalent site of HNC was the oral cavity (57.1%) in the diabetes group and the next most prevalent cancer site was the nasopharynx (15.3%). The risk was estimated as higher for people 40 to 65 years old.

The authors also noted that the mechanisms underlying the association between these conditions may involve shared genetic risk factors, epigenetic modifications of inherited or acquired genetic mutations, long-term exposure to hyperinsulinemia, exposure to high levels of insulin and insulin-like growth factor, and metabolic dysfunctions parallel to diabetes.

The study highlights the importance of monitoring and managing diabetes. Self-care has an important role in managing the condition. However, while ensuring adequate glycemic control, proper measures are necessary to prevent complications, limit disabilities and promote function through rehabilitation. Leading healthcare centers provide proactive rehab programs that include modalities such as chiropractic treatment, physical therapy, diabetic nerve pain management, and more.