Insulin resistance has been linked to an increased risk of various types of cancer. The mechanism involves several factors including chronic inflammation, increased availability of glucose for cancer cells, and the mitogenic (cell-proliferating) effects of insulin. Hyperinsulinemia can stimulate the growth of cancer cells directly or indirectly by increasing levels of IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1), which promotes cell proliferation and inhibits apoptosis (programmed cell death).
