Breast Cancer Treatments Linked to Increased Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

A new study published in Breast Cancer Research and Treatment raised concerns about the potential link between breast cancer and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D), with a particular focus on the impact of breast cancer treatments. 

The research team conducted an extensive search through PubMed, Embase, and references of relevant papers for studies exploring the interplay between breast cancer, its treatments, and the subsequent risk of T2D. Random-effects models were employed to calculate effect estimates and associated 95% confidence intervals concerning the association between breast cancer, adjuvant breast cancer treatments (including endocrine therapy and chemotherapy), and the risk of developing T2D. Publication bias was assessed through the use of funnel plots.

The comprehensive analysis encompassed 15 eligible studies, with 10 of them focusing on T2D risk following breast cancer diagnosis or various treatments. Notably, five studies delved into more than one association. 

The findings revealed that patients with a history of breast cancer faced an elevated risk of developing T2D compared to those without breast cancer (Effect Estimate (EE) = 1.23, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 1.13–1.33). Similarly, individuals who underwent any form of endocrine therapy exhibited an increased risk of incident T2D (EE = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.16–1.32).

For breast cancer patients, the risk of developing T2D was notably higher in those who received tamoxifen compared to those who did not (EE = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.18–1.38). However, due to limited available data, the analyses regarding T2D risk after treatment with aromatase inhibitors or chemotherapy remained inconclusive.

This study underscores the potential link between breast cancer and an elevated risk of developing type 2 diabetes, particularly in individuals who have undergone tamoxifen therapy as part of their breast cancer treatment. While the results for aromatase inhibitors and chemotherapy remain uncertain due to insufficient data, the findings emphasize the importance of monitoring and managing the metabolic health of breast cancer survivors.

Further research is essential to elucidate the precise mechanisms underlying this association and to provide better guidance for healthcare professionals in managing the long-term health of breast cancer survivors. In the meantime, healthcare providers should consider regular monitoring and lifestyle interventions to mitigate the potential risk of T2D in this vulnerable population.

Source:

Jordt, N., Kjærgaard, K. A., Thomsen, R. W., Borgquist, S., & Cronin-Fenton, D. (2023). Breast cancer and incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis. In Breast Cancer Research and Treatment. Springer Science and Business Media LLC. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10549-023-07043-6