Anxiety is a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people around the world. It can lead to a range of physical and psychological symptoms, and if left untreated, it can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life.

A new study has revealed that anxiety could also have a much more serious consequence, however – it could double cancer mortality rates in men.

The Study

The study, which was conducted by researchers at the University of Cambridge and published in the scientific journal The Lancet, analyzed data from the Whitehall II study – a large-scale investigation of the health and wellbeing of over 10,000 civil servants in the UK. The study followed the participants for a period of more than 15 years, tracking rates of anxiety and cancer mortality.

The results of the study were striking. Among men who had been diagnosed with anxiety at some point during their lives, the risk of dying from cancer was significantly higher than among men who had not experienced anxiety.

In fact, the researchers found that the risk of cancer-related death was more than doubled in men with a history of anxiety.

Interestingly, the same link was not found in women. While women with anxiety did appear to have a higher risk of dying from cancer, the effect was not nearly as pronounced as it was in men.

Why Might Anxiety Increase Risk of Cancer Mortality?

The study’s authors were quick to point out that while the link between anxiety and cancer mortality was clear, the reasons behind the association were less so. However, there are a few possible explanations that are worth considering.

1. Stress Hormones

Anxiety is associated with high levels of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. Chronic stress can cause these hormones to flood the body more frequently, which can have a range of negative effects on the immune system.

This may make it harder for the body to fight off cancer cells, leading to a higher risk of cancer mortality.

2. Lifestyle Factors

People with anxiety may be more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors like smoking, drinking, or overeating in order to cope with their symptoms.

These behaviors are all associated with a higher risk of cancer, which could explain why men with anxiety have a higher risk of cancer mortality.

3. Healthcare Utilization

It’s also possible that men with anxiety are less likely to seek medical attention or follow through on medical treatments than men without anxiety.

This could mean that cancers are not detected as early as they might be in men without anxiety, leading to a higher risk of cancer mortality.

What Can Be Done?

While the study’s findings are certainly concerning, there is some good news. Anxiety is a treatable condition, and there are a range of effective treatments available including therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.

By seeking out professional support for their anxiety symptoms, men may be able to reduce their risk of cancer mortality.

It’s also important for men with anxiety to prioritize their overall health and wellbeing. This means eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding unhealthy behaviors like smoking and excessive drinking.

By taking care of their bodies, men can improve their overall health and potentially reduce their risk of cancer mortality.

The Bottom Line

The link between anxiety and cancer mortality is a concerning one, particularly for men.

While more research is needed to understand the reasons behind this association, the study’s findings underscore the importance of taking anxiety seriously as a potential risk factor for serious health complications. By seeking out care and prioritizing healthy habits, men with anxiety can take proactive steps to protect their health and potentially reduce their risk of cancer mortality.