How Moffitt Specialists Help Patients Manage and Prevent Diabetes During Cancer Care
What Is the Connection Between Diabetes and Cancer?
About 38 million people are living with diabetes in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 5 people with cancer also has diabetes.
In a global study from The George Institute for Global Health conducted in 2018, researchers found that those with diabetes, especially women, are at a higher risk of developing cancer. The study found that women with diabetes were 27% more likely to develop cancer compared to women without diabetes.
Another study found that around 80% of pancreatic cancer patients have glucose intolerance or new-onset type 2 diabetes at the time of diagnosis.
What Is Diabetes and Why Can It Affect Cancer Patients?
Diabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are too high, and several factors related to cancer or its treatment may increase a patient's risk of developing the condition.
There are several types of diabetes, with type 2 being the most common. As an oncology nutrition specialist at Moffitt Cancer Center, Rachael Williams sees plenty of patients with diabetes and those trying to prevent it.
Rachael Williams, oncology nutrition specialist at Moffitt Cancer Center, said, “Certain cancers may impact the pancreas. One of the functions of the pancreas is secreting insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. If the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, patients can experience a sustained increase in blood sugar levels, leading to a diabetes diagnosis.” Over time, uncontrolled blood sugar levels can cause serious damage to the kidneys, eyes, and nerves. It can also lead to impaired blood flow and poor wound healing.
Patients can also be at a greater risk for developing diabetes while undergoing certain treatments. For example, steroids are commonly used to help patients tolerate chemotherapy, with one side effect being an increase in blood sugar levels.
How Moffitt Specialists Help Patients Manage and Prevent Diabetes
Moffitt's nutrition specialists work with patients to develop personalized strategies for managing blood sugar levels and reducing diabetes risk throughout cancer treatment and survivorship.
Whether a patient has diabetes or is focused on prevention, Williams and the nutrition team promote healthy, sustainable lifestyle changes and provide individualized patient care.
Rachael Williams, oncology nutrition specialist at Moffitt Cancer Center, said, “I encourage patients to follow a whole-food plant-based diet and participate in moderate-intensity physical activity at least 30 to 60 minutes daily, five days per week as able.
Healthy Lifestyle Habits That May Help Prevent or Manage Diabetes
Healthy lifestyle choices can support blood sugar management and overall health before, during, and after cancer treatment.
According to Williams, a whole-food plant-based diet includes:
- Lean protein sources
- Whole grains
- A variety of fruits and vegetables
- Healthy fat options
- Minimizing ultra-processed foods
- Increasing fiber consumption
- Avoiding tobacco and alcohol
- Aiming to consume 64 to 80 ounces of fluid per day
- Avoiding foods and beverages containing added sugar
These habits can help support overall wellness and may complement a patient's individualized care plan. Patients should always discuss nutrition and exercise recommendations with their health care team, especially during cancer treatment.
When Should You Talk to a Health Care Provider About Diabetes?
If you believe you may be at risk for diabetes or notice changes in your blood sugar levels, speak with your health care team as early as possible. Early evaluation and personalized guidance can help support better health outcomes.
Rachael Williams, oncology nutrition specialist at Moffitt Cancer Center, said, “If you think you are at risk, work with your doctors, along with a registered dietitian or certified diabetes educator, to start the process of managing your blood sugar levels and make healthier lifestyle choices.
