When considering risk factors for lung cancer, excessive smoking is usually the first thing that comes to mind. However, scientists are now suggesting that an unexpected lifestyle choice may also contribute.
A new study led by the University of Florida has explored the potential impact of glucose, or simple sugar levels, on the development of lung tumours. While obesity, often associated with high sugar intake, is a known catalyst for various other cancers, lung tumours have not typically been linked with dietary habits.
However, new analyses using both lab and computer-based models have shown that glycogen, a form of simple sugar, acts as an ‘oncogenic metabolite’ for lung cancer.
Essentially, it behaves like a ‘giant lollipop for cancer’s sweet tooth’, with increased glycogen levels fuelling larger and more aggressive tumour growth.
“Lung cancer has not traditionally been thought of as a dietary-related disease,” said Associate Professor Dr Ramon Sun, who worked on the project. “Diseases like pancreatic cancer or liver cancer, yes. However, when it comes to lung cancer, the idea that diet could play a role is rarely discussed.”
Glycogen, the stored form of glucose, isn’t directly found in food, but the body produces it from carbohydrates. Foods rich in carbs, like grains, fruits, and vegetables, provide the glucose that your body uses to create glycogen
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As Dr Sun suggested, this study is among the first to link lung cancer with dietary choices. The researchers, based in the US, warned that ‘Western diets’ are particularly harmful in increasing the risk, as they elevate glycogen levels and provide the ‘building blocks’ for lung tumour growth.
A ‘Western Diet’ is generally characterised by high-sugar, low-fibre processed foods and high red meat consumption. Not only are these components linked to a potentially heightened risk of other cancers, but obesity, diabetes and heart disease as well.
Currently, heart and circulatory diseases make up a quarter of all deaths in the UK, equating to more than 170,000 deaths per year, statistics from the British Heart Foundation suggest. This is equivalent to one death every three minutes.
Heart and circulatory diseases are already causing a staggering number of deaths across the UK, a worrying statistic highlighted by the British Heart Foundation, which reports over 170,000 death per year – that’s a life claimed every three minutes.
Amidst this, Dr Sun said: “In the long term, our approach to cancer prevention should mirror the success of the anti-smoking campaign — placing greater emphasis on public awareness and policy-driven strategies that promote healthier dietary choices as a fundamental component of disease prevention.”
Study collaborator Matthew Gentry, added: “Prioritising a nutrient-rich diet, maintaining an active lifestyle and minimising alcohol intake are foundational strategies for long-term health. Fostering better dietary habits can be a powerful tool in lung cancer prevention.”