Is There a Link Between Stress and Cancer Via the Parasympathetic Nervous System?
While the parasympathetic nervous system itself is involved in reducing stress through the "rest and digest" mechanisms, chronic stress can disrupt the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems. Chronic stress usually activates the sympathetic nervous system, leading to the release of stress hormones like cortisol, which have been shown to promote cancer progression. Therefore, maintaining a balanced autonomic nervous system, including adequate parasympathetic activity, may be crucial in cancer prevention and management.
