What are the Mechanisms Underlying the Hyperinsulinemia-Cancer Link?
Several biological mechanisms have been proposed to explain the association between hyperinsulinemia and cancer risk:
Increased Mitogenic Activity: Insulin and IGF-1 can activate pathways such as the PI3K/AKT and MAPK pathways, which promote cell growth and division. Enhanced Inflammatory Response: Hyperinsulinemia is often accompanied by chronic inflammation, which can create a microenvironment that supports tumorigenesis. Altered Hormonal Balance: Insulin can influence the levels of sex hormones, which may play a role in hormone-sensitive cancers such as breast and endometrial cancers.
