Does stress cause cancer?

This page provides information about stress and cancer risk. We have separate information on mental health and cancer for people affected by cancer.

Why are some people worried about stress and cancer?

Some people are worried that being stressed can cause cancer. It has been suggested that stress may impact the body in ways that make cancer more likely. For example through hormone changes or inflammation. But these theories have come from experiments on animals and cells. There is no strong evidence for stress causing cancer from studies of people.

What does the research say about stress and cancer?

Being stressed doesn’t directly cause cancer.

Research has not shown a consistent link between stress and cancer. For example, a large study of over 100,000 women in the UK showed no link between stress and breast cancer risk. And a large European study of over 100,000 people found no evidence of a link between stress and the risk of common cancers.

So it can’t be said that stress directly causes cancer.

But stress can impact a person’s ability to live a healthy life. It can lead to changes in behaviour or daily routine that can make a difference to cancer risk.

How does stress impact on healthy habits that lower the risk of cancer?

Stress can impact people in different ways and intensities. People also respond to and cope with stress differently.

During stressful times it can be harder to keep up healthy habits that are proven to lower the risk of cancer. Such as:

• Not smoking
• Keeping a healthy weight
• Cutting down on alcohol
• Eating a healthy diet
• Being physically active

And sometimes, being stressed can lead to unhealthy changes. A person who is experiencing a stressful time may:

• Smoke or smoke more
• Drink alcohol or drink more of it
• Eat more unhealthy foods like fast food and sugary food and drinks

These are examples of how stress can indirectly increase a person’s risk of cancer.

Mind have information on how looking after your physical health can support your mental health.

We have advice for how you can form and keep healthy habits, even in stressful times. Small changes can add up to make a big difference to your health.

Find out more about the healthy changes you can make to lower your risk of cancer.

Where can I get support for managing stress?

If you’re finding it hard to cope with stress it’s a good idea to speak to your doctor. They can help you get support for managing stress and your mental health.

You can find information about stress, coping methods and sources of support from the NHS and Mind.

Get our tips for speaking to your doctor.