No. Your high stress levels cannot cause you to get cancer.
The
This includes:
- digestive problems
- heart disease
- depression
- a weakened immune system
- high blood pressure
When you’re experiencing long-term stress, your body constantly feels like it’s under threat, which can trigger your nervous system to release hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.
This can lead to behavioral changes and cause you to develop unhealthy habits that increase your risk of cancer, such as:
- beginning to drink or drinking more alcohol
- beginning to smoke smoking more
- eating unhealthy foods
- not maintaining a healthy weight
- spending less time being physically active
If you experience stress regularly and it’s affecting your day-to-day life, it may be helpful to connect with a healthcare professional. They can work with you to put together a suitable treatment plan.
Learn more about how you can manage your stress levels.
Medically reviewed by Julie Scott, DNP, ANP-BC, AOCNP
Dr. Julie Scott is an oncology certified nurse practitioner. She practices clinically in a community medical clinic. Additionally, she serves as an adjunct faculty member in a master’s in nursing program at a local university.