The oncologist spoke about the connection between chronic stress and cancer

Chronic stress makes the body more vulnerable to diseases, one of the most serious assumptions is its connection with the development of cancer. Oncologist Violetta Purtskhvanidze told about this on May 24.

"In fact, stress is the body's natural reaction to threats or intense stress. In ancient times, it helped people survive <...> Short—term stress is even useful, because it activates the body's resources and helps overcome difficulties. But when the tension becomes constant, it turns into a serious threat to health," she shared in an interview with the newspaper.Ru».

According to her, as a result of chronic stress, adrenaline, cortisol and norepinephrine are released into the bloodstream, which, with prolonged exposure, begin to negatively affect the body: the heart is working at its limit, blood vessels spasm, and the immune system weakens. In addition, the digestive and endocrine systems are disrupted, as well as the metabolism, which causes the body to weaken greatly and become vulnerable to various diseases.

It should be clarified that modern research does not confirm that stress is a direct cause of cancer, but scientists have discovered several ways through which it can contribute to the development of the disease.

"First of all, stress suppresses the immune system, which is the body's main defender against cancer cells. Immune cells recognize and destroy abnormal formations, but with chronic stress, their activity decreases sharply," Purtskhvanidze explained.

In addition, stress can provoke long-term inflammatory processes. Scientists also claim that stress affects health through lifestyle changes.

"Current recommendations boil down to the following: it is necessary to learn how to manage stress, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and undergo regular medical examinations," the doctor concluded.

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