How Reducing Inflammation May Help Lower Cancer Risk — and What You Can Do
For cancer patients and caregivers, learning about inflammation is key. New research published in Nature Immunology suggests that reducing inflammation might not only ease symptoms — it could actually lower the risk of developing cancer.
What the Study Found
Researchers studied two important immune system proteins: Interleukin-22 (IL-22) and Oncostatin M (OSM). These proteins help the body fight infections and repair tissues. But when they stay active for too long, they keep the gut in a constant state of inflammation.
This ongoing inflammation can damage cells in the intestine. Over time, damaged cells can change and become cancerous. The study found that:
IL-22 increases the number of receptors (like "docking stations") for OSM on the gut lining.
OSM binds to these receptors and keeps the inflammation going.
This constant "fire" of inflammation makes cancer more likely to develop.
When researchers blocked OSM activity or reduced its receptors, inflammation decreased — and so did the risk of cancer, at least in animal studies.
Why Reducing Inflammation Matters
Chronic inflammation is like a slow, burning fire in the body. It damages tissues and can weaken your defenses against cancer. This is especially important for people with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) — like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis — where the gut is already inflamed and the risk of colorectal cancer is higher.
Lowering inflammation isn’t just about feeling better; it may be an important way to protect your long-term health and reduce cancer risk.
How Can You Reduce Inflammation?
While scientists are working on new treatments to target the IL-22–OSM pathway specifically, there are already steps you can take to help lower inflammation naturally:
Eat an Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and fatty fish like salmon.
Limit processed foods, red meat, and foods high in sugar.
Stay Physically Active
Regular moderate exercise like walking, swimming, or yoga can reduce inflammation.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity is linked to higher inflammation, so reaching and maintaining a healthy weight can help.
Manage Stress
Chronic stress can drive inflammation. Try relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or gentle stretching.
Get Enough Sleep
Poor sleep can worsen inflammation. Aim for 7–8 hours of restful sleep each night.
Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol
Both smoking and excessive alcohol use increase inflammation and cancer risk.
Follow Your Doctor’s Advice
Medications for IBD or other inflammatory conditions can help keep inflammation under control. Always take them as prescribed.
What’s Next?
Researchers hope that by targeting the IL-22–OSM pathway, they can create treatments that lower inflammation safely and precisely — without affecting the whole immune system. While these therapies are still being studied, taking steps to control inflammation today could make a real difference for your future health.
Final Thoughts
Chronic inflammation doesn’t just cause discomfort — it increases the risk of cancer. This new research shows that controlling inflammation could play a big role in preventing cancer, especially for people already at higher risk. By making healthy lifestyle choices and working closely with your healthcare team, you can take action now to lower your inflammation and protect your health.
Reference
The IL-22–oncostatin M axis promotes intestinal inflammation and tumorigenesis
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This blog was reviewed by Dr. Sourabh Kharait.
This blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan, hydration strategies, or diet. The information provided here is based on general insights and may not apply to individual circumstances.
