Diabetes link with cancers

Scientists have established a genetic link between type 2 diabetes and certain cancers, according to a new study.

Diabetes UK, which partfunded the research, said it highlighted how people with type 2 are at increased risk of breast, bowel and pancreatic cancer.

The study, which has not yet been peer-reviewed or published, is being presented at the Diabetes UK Professional Conference in London.

Being obese makes people seven times more at risk of developing type 2 diabetes but other factors including genetics can also play a role.

Hundreds of genetic variants have already been identified as contributing to type 2, and it is known that genetics can increase the risk of cancer.

The new study, led by

Professor Inga Prokopenko at the University of Surrey, focused on the three cancer types people with type 2 diabetes are at higher risk of developing – postmenopausal breast cancer, colorectal (bowel) cancer and pancreatic cancer.

Using DNA data from more than 36,000 people the researchers identified, for the first time, that two specific genetic variants are key contributors to people developing conditions.

The study concluded that people carrying either of the variants have an increased chance of developing both type 2 diabetes and cancer.

Dr Elizabeth Robertson, director of research at Diabetes UK, said: “This research sheds new light on the role that genetically determined factors play in why some people with type 2 diabetes are also at risk of breast, colorectal and pancreatic cancer.

“In time, this could help doctors to identify people earlier who are at risk of both type 2 diabetes and certain cancers, while paving the way to better, more personalised ways to prevent and treat the conditions.”

More than five million people in the UK have diabetes, of whom 90% have type 2. both

Millions live with diabetes.