How does cortisol affect cancer cells?

Cortisol may increase the resilience and stemness of cancer cells, promoting tumour growth and making them harder to treat.

What is 'stemness' in relation to cancer?

'Stemness' measures a cell's ability to renew, adapt, and spread, which contributes to the growth and progression of tumours.

What mindful activities can help cancer patients?

Engaging in mindful activities, such as spending time in nature, is suggested to potentially help cancer patients by reducing the risk of disease spread.

Home / Health / Cortisol Linked to Cancer Spread: New Research

Cortisol Linked to Cancer Spread: New Research

22 Feb

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Summary

Stress hormone cortisol may increase cancer cell resilience.
Disrupted cortisol rhythms in patients promote tumour growth.
Mindful activities like nature time may aid cancer patients.

Cortisol Linked to Cancer Spread: New Research

Scientists have uncovered a potential link between the stress hormone cortisol and the progression of cancer. Research indicates that cortisol may play a role in making tumours more resilient and challenging to treat.

Normally, cortisol levels follow a daily rhythm, peaking in the morning and lowering in the evening. However, this pattern is disrupted in cancer patients, leading to more consistent levels. This 'steady-state' of cortisol has been shown to enhance 'stemness' in cells.

'Stemness' refers to a cell's capacity for renewal, adaptation, and spreading, all of which contribute to tumour growth. The findings suggest that mindful activities, such as spending time in nature, might help mitigate these effects, mirroring practices observed in figures like the Princess of Wales.

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