By Eileen Renders
Can Stress Cause Cancer?
According to City of Hope, and their medical and editorial guidelines, and I quote, “Studies suggest that chemical changes within the body due to stress increase the risk of conditions like heart disease and diabetes and the growth and spread of cancer.”
For many years, it has been confirmed that chronic stress from financial issues and stress from family issues can cause chemical alterations in one’s body, and this can lead to hypertension, as well as an increase the release of certain hormones leading to inflammation.
Many researchers today consider inflammation a hallmark of cancer, with up to 20% of cancer-related deaths linked to it. We can also have either psychological stress or physiological stress, or both.
Dr. Bruetman says many patients believe that if they had endured less stress, their medical treatments may have been successful. The (NCI) National Cancer Institute says, “The link between cancer and stress “is not clear,” and that studies on the topic have varying results. The NCI goes on to say, “if there is a connection, it may be indirect. NCI further suggests that stress may lead to unhealthy habits, such as smoking, alcohol, or excessive binge eating of unhealthy foods, which may contribute to cancer risk.
Suggestions for Reducing Stress
One that may surprise many ~ Disconnect from electronics
Healthier nutritional habits
Exercise regularly
Listen to relaxing music
*When not driving! ~ Enjoy a cup of Chamomile tea
Join a Support group
Read a good book
Practice Meditation and breathing techniques
Take a Yoga class
Take notes to the times and causes of feelings of stress and anxiety
Spend time with your enjoyable hobbies
Ensure a good night’s sleep
Take an antioxidant everday (Vitamin-C, Resveratrol, Zinc) – Always with your doctor’s approval
Disclaimer: The information contained in articles by Eileen Renders is not meant to become a substitute for one’s physician’s recommendations; they are for educational purposes only. Drugs, herbs, and or supplements are often contraindicated with certain other medications and conditions.
Eileen Renders is a retired nutrition counselor, health research writer, author, and publisher with more than a dozen published titles on www.Amazon.com She founded the First Wellness Center in Atlantic County in 1995 and was a provider for Cigna and United Healthcare. Books by Eileen Renders, Aortic Valve Stenosis, HIV AND DRUG-FREE, Food Additives, Nutrients, & Supplements, Common Disorders, Natural Remedies You and Your Weight and more.
