Stress weakens the body's defenses against cancer from "summary" of Anticancer by David Servan-Schreiber, MD, PhD
The connection between stress and cancer is not a new concept. For many years, scientists have been studying the impact of stress on the body's ability to fight off disease. What they have found is that chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to detect and destroy cancer cells. When we are under stress, our bodies release hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can suppress the immune system. This means that the body is less able to recognize and attack cancer cells, allowing them to proliferate unchecked. In addition, stress can promote inflammation in the body, which has been linked to the development and progression of cancer. But the effects of stress on cancer go beyond just weakening the immune system. Stress can also influence other factors that are known to promote cancer growth, such as blood sugar levels and hormone balance. For example, chronic stress can lead to insulin resistance, which can fuel the growth of cancer cells. Stress can also disrupt the balance of hormones in the body, such as estrogen and testosterone, which are known to play a role in the development of certain types of cancer. It is important to note that stress alone is not enough to cause cancer. Cancer is a complex disease with many contributing factors, including genetics, lifestyle choices, and environmental exposures. However, chronic stress can certainly tip the scales in favor of cancer growth by weakening the body's natural defenses.- Yoga, exercise, and spending time in nature. By taking steps to reduce stress, we can help support our body's natural defenses against cancer and improve our overall health and well-being.
