Millions with type 2 diabetes ‘at greater risk of 3 killer cancers’, scientists discover [Video]

BRITS with type 2 diabetes may be at greater risk of breast, bowel and pancreatic cancers, a study suggests.

Genetic variants — differences in sequences of genes — affect a person’s risk of both diabetes and the three types of cancer, researchers found.

Experts said the research could help doctors identify people who have a higher chance of the conditions in future and tailor their treatment to their level of risk.

Dr Elizabeth Robertson, of Diabetes UK, said: “Type 2 diabetes and cancers are complex conditions with a multitude of factors increasing people’s likelihood of developing them.

“This research sheds new light on the role that genetically determined factors play in why some people with type 2 diabetes are also at risk of breast, colorectal and pancreatic cancer.”

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