Middle-aged and older Americans who are newly diagnosed with diabetes also appear to have a higher risk of deadly pancreatic cancer, according to a study published on Tuesday (August 2).
For three years after their diagnosis with diabetes, patients have eight times the risk of developing pancreatic cancer, the study at the Mayo Clinic Cancer Center found.
Diabetes itself may be an early symptom of the hard-to-treat cancer, the researchers said.
"Pancreatic cancer is difficult to detect until it is in an advanced stage, leaving little hope for patients," said Dr Suresh Chari, who led the study.