Daily meditation may reduce the risk of cancer spreading
Daily meditation and stress-reduction techniques may play a role in managing cancer’s progression, according to research presented at a major scientific conference. Findings suggest a link between consistently elevated cortisol levels – often called the “stress hormone” – in cancer patients and the potential for increased cancer cell spread.
Cortisol and Cancer Progression
Dr. Kimberly Bussey from Midwestern University, along with medical student Cassidy Kennedy, presented research at a meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science in Phoenix, Arizona. Their work indicates that persistently high cortisol levels may make cancer cells “more resistant” and “more motile,” enabling them to invade other parts of the body.
Dr. Bussey explained, “Our data suggests that cortisol might be important in the spread of cancer within the body.” The research builds on existing literature indicating that chronic psychosocial stress can contribute to both cancer development and a patient’s response to therapy.
The Role of Stress Management
Recognizing that living with cancer is inherently stressful, Dr. Bussey emphasized the importance of proactive stress management. She recommends incorporating stress-reducing activities into daily routines, particularly in the morning and before bed.
Suggested practices include exercise, spending time in nature, mindfulness techniques like journaling and deep breathing, maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in acts of service, and prioritizing sufficient sleep. Dr. Bussey advised patients to prioritize tasks, distinguishing between “must dos” and “can dos” to ease daily burdens.
The study also revealed “persistent changes in gene expression in response to cortisol,” suggesting the hormone’s potential to influence long-term cancer cell behavior and how they respond to treatment. Early indications suggest high cortisol levels may also interfere with the effectiveness of certain cancer drugs, and some drugs used to manage treatment side effects could potentially hinder cancer cell destruction, though further research is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the research involve?
Dr. Bussey and Cassidy Kennedy conducted experiments on cancer cells in a laboratory, exposing them to varying levels of cortisol to observe the effects on their behavior.
What were the key findings?
The research suggests that consistently high levels of cortisol may increase the ability of cancer cells to spread and become more resistant to treatment.
What is recommended based on this research?
Dr. Bussey recommends that cancer patients prioritize stress management techniques, such as exercise, mindfulness, and a healthy lifestyle, to potentially mitigate the effects of cortisol.
Given the potential link between stress and cancer progression, what steps can individuals take to proactively manage their stress levels and support their overall well-being?