Colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality among individuals younger than 50 years (early-onset CRC) are increasing. The reasons for such increases are largely unknown, although the increasing prevalence of obesity may be partially responsible.
…insulin signaling can be seen as enabling tumor development by providing a mechanism for PI3K activation and enhanced glucose uptake. This idea is supported by studies showing enhanced tumor development in humans and mice with hyperinsulinemia, and reduced tumor development in states of reduced insulin levels.