For millions of people diagnosed with autoimmune disorders, Prednisone and other immunosuppressant drugs are often prescribed as the go-to treatment. Prednisone, a corticosteroid widely used to treat inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, is one of the most prescribed drugs in the United States for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, cancer, and asthma. These medications aim to reduce inflammation and suppress an overactive immune system. However, a growing body of research suggests that there may be a concerning link between long-term use of Prednisone and an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer. Malignant cancers following long-term treatment with prednisone and prednisone-like immunosuppressant drugs have been reported.
Potential side effects of prednisone:
Bone complications: High doses of prednisone can cause aseptic necrosis of the bones in the hips and shoulders.
Neurological issues: Steroids can cause neurological problems.
Increased blood sugar: Prednisone can raise blood sugar levels, which can be especially dangerous for people with diabetes.
Increased risk of infection:
A study published in PubMed states that Other side effects include: "Physical changes include edema of the face (moon face), edema of the legs and ankles, fatty deposits in the neck and shoulders (humpback), weakness of the limbs, unsteady gait, aortic stenosis, and premature aging. Psychologically, the individual may suffer confusion, depression, become argumentative with uncharacteristic explosive fits of anger, and contemplate suicide . It is reasonable to suggest then that the drug also interferes with the amygdala-hippocampus emotional center of the brain ." See full report by clicking the link below
Multiple Tumor Induction after Treatment of Temporal Arteritis with Prednisone - PMC
Potential lawsuits are being investigated by lawyers against prednisone for its link to cancer. Although its nearly impossible to win lawsuits against FDA approved drugs such as prednisone, some lawsuits have been successful against prednisone in the past if they involve medical malpractice such as overly high dosages or failure to disclose the drugs side effects.
the whole premise of immunosuppressant drug use begs controversy. The immune system does not overreact without cause. Inflammation and pain are signs that the body is under duress, whether from poor diet or emotional strain.
By suppressing inflammation over the long term with medication, we are essentially silencing the body's warning signals. Logically we run serious risks by doing so. A strong immune system is essential for maintaining overall health.
A family friend recently passed away at a fairly young age, after going through the typical treatment for arthritis, which caused a host of other complications.
The medical establishment doesnt claim to "cure" chronic diseases like arthritis for which prednisone is prescribed.
The medical establishment doesn't even claim to "cure" chronic conditions like arthritis, for which prednisone is often prescribed. Instead, these medications serve as a temporary solution to mask symptoms, but this short-term approach can lead to significant long-term issues.
Understanding the Link Between Cancer and Prednisone
Prednisone functions primarily as an anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant, providing relief to patients suffering from various autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. However, this suppression of the immune system can have unintended consequences, including a heightened vulnerability to infections and malignancies.
Research has shown that the immune system plays a vital role in identifying and eliminating cancer cells. When the immune response is dampened by long-term use of prednisone, the body’s ability to detect and destroy these potentially dangerous cells may be significantly impaired. This impaired surveillance can lead to a higher incidence of cancer.
The Role of Prednisone in Suppressing the Immune System
Prednisone functions as a powerful immunosuppressant, a characteristic that is both beneficial and potentially harmful. By inhibiting the immune response, it alleviates symptoms of inflammation . However, this suppression can also leave the body vulnerable to infections and malignancies.
When prednisone is administered, it alters the activity of various immune cells, including T-cells and macrophages. These alterations can lead to a diminished ability to fight off infections and malignancies. The immune system's natural ability to surveil for abnormal cells is compromised, allowing for the potential development of cancerous cells that would typically be eliminated.
Research Studies on the Cancer Risks Associated with Prednisone
A growing body of research has begun to elucidate the potential cancer risks associated with long-term prednisone use. Numerous studies have indicated a correlation between prolonged exposure to corticosteroids and an increased incidence of various malignancies.
One significant study published in the journal "Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention" examined the cancer risk among patients with autoimmune diseases on long-term corticosteroid therapy. The findings suggested a marked increase in the incidence of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and skin cancers among patients exposed to these drugs for extended periods. This research highlights the need for vigilance among both patients and healthcare professionals when considering long-term corticosteroid therapy.
Another related study published in the "Journal of Clinical Oncology" reviewed cancer risks among organ transplant recipients who were prescribed immunosuppressants, including prednisone. The results demonstrated a significantly higher risk of developing various malignancies, particularly skin cancers and lymphoproliferative disorders.
Common Types of Cancer Linked to Prednisone Use
One of the most commonly reported cancers linked to prednisone use is non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Patients with autoimmune diseases who are treated with immunosuppressants, including prednisone, have been shown to have an elevated risk for developing NHL. This correlation is thought to arise from the drug's impact on immune function, which can lead to the proliferation of aberrant lymphoid cells.
Skin cancers, particularly melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma, have also been associated with long-term corticosteroid therapy. Prednisone can cause thinning of the skin and immunosuppression, which may contribute to the development of skin malignancies. Patients on prolonged prednisone therapy are advised to practice sun safety and undergo regular dermatological screenings to detect any suspicious lesions early.
Other types of cancer, including gastrointestinal cancers, have also been linked to prolonged prednisone use. The mechanisms behind these associations are still being studied, but chronic inflammation and alterations in gut microbiota due to corticosteroid therapy may play a role. As research continues, it is crucial for patients to be aware of these potential risks and to discuss them with their healthcare providers.
Alternative Tips for Managing Inflammation Without Prednisone
Inflammation is generally caused by bad diet, stress, medications, and/or environmental factors.
The key to relieving inflammation is removing inflammatory foods, lowering stress levels, and tapering off medications that could be causing your inflammation. You can view a list of side effects for almost any medication online.
1) Avoid Inflammatory Foods
Inflammatory Foods to Eliminate Completely: Sugar and artificial sweeteners like Aspartame, alcohol, modern GMO wheat, meat, fish (fish is not a health food unless you're fishing in the pure open sea waters of Alaska or the Antarctic- most "wild caught" salmon are raised in filthy ocean pens), chicken, trans fats (almost all packed foods contain trans fats which cause inflammation) , cheese, milk (with the exception of raw milk) fruit syrup, corn syrup, processed foods.
Reduce by 90%: rice, potatoes, legumes, eggplant
Reduce Intake: nightshade vegetables like red pepper, tomatoes, nuts
2) Adopt an Alkaline Anti-Inflammatory Plant Based Diet:
Adopt a diet rich in ancient grains like Kamut and Einkorn, which unlike modern wheat, actually have anti-inflammatory properties. An anti-inflammatory Diet should include healthy fats like real Heirloom Olive Oil and avocadoes, and plenty of fresh and cooked fruits and vegetables. Many Fruits and green vegetables have anti-inflammatory properties. Be sure to eat a salad full of greens and cooked or raw colorful vegetables with every meal. Opt for organic fruits and berries.
Incorporating low glycemic index foods into your diet can be particularly beneficial for managing inflammation.
High blood sugar levels can contribute to inflammation. This is because high blood sugar levels, also known as hyperglycemia, can cause the body to produce inflammatory molecules.
How high blood sugar contributes to inflammation:
- Stress on the body High blood sugar levels can stress the body, which can make the immune system work harder.
- Reactive molecules High blood sugar levels can cause the body to produce free radicals, which can damage blood vessels and cause inflammation
The ancient grains breads mentioned above release glucose slowly into the bloodstream, preventing spikes in blood sugar levels. Sugar is very acidifying for the body, for this reason, low GI foods are very helpful in controlling arthritis.
Bread was a staple food since Biblical times for a reason. If made properly, bread has the potential to contain up to 70% of your daily nutritional needs. Unfortunately most of the commercial breads out there are toxic including sprouted breads. OPt for ancient grain breads
To learn more about our special Ancient Grain Einkorn breads click here
3) Anti-Inflammatory Herbal Teas
Certain Herbs like Cistus Tea and Longjing Tea have potent anti-inflammatory properties, especially when combined together.
Discover our Anti-Inflammatory and Detoxification Tea Pack here.
4) Coral Calcium- For joint and muscle inflammation
Coral Calcium is a super absorbable natural supplement to treat low calcium levels and for bone and joint repair. Also helps lower joint pain and inflammation.
It works fast to relieve pain and lower bone and joint inflammation.
Coral Calcium’s composition is similar to that of human bone and has been used as bone graft material for over 30 years.
At Joseph's organic Bakery we went to great lengths to find the highest quality coral calcium possible. Because its so rare and expensive, most coral calcium is full of binders and fillers or just plain and simply made from shellfish bones.
Our Bone Fuel Coral Calcium is made from 100% Authentic Coral Calcium from coral sand deposits in Okinawa Japan. No binders no fillers. Ingredients: 100% Japanese Coral Calcium, vegetable capsules
Learn more about our Coral Calcium here
4) Anti-Inflammatory Herbs-
Certain Herbs contain anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and stimulate body rejuvenation. Some of those herbs can be found in our BOOST supplement.
5) GINGER POULTICE- Joint Relief
Ginger poultices draw out toxins. They have a powerful anti-inflammatory effect, and can lower swelling and reduce pain. Beware: the ginger can heat and even slightly burn skin if left for too long. Its safe but just keep an eye and see how you feel. Some people enjoy the heat, just try the poultice for an hour or 2 the first time and then slowly increase the duration.
Grate a ginger very fine, put it in the middle of a cloth , fold the cloth around it and put some plastic on one side apply to inflamed joint - It does draw out the toxins, the skin can become very hot, put it on for an hour or 2 - if its not too hot for you, you can leave it on for another hour, the second time you can leave it on for a few more hours. Start slow- do not do it more than once per day.
Another Option is Castor Oil Packs. Castor oil is also an anti-inflammatory but it works more slowly and is not as powerful.
Arthritis Starter Pack
Arthritis thrives in acidic environment. We need an alkaline oxygenated body to prevent and treat Arthritis. In this pack we combine potent herbs to combat the effects of arthritis. We chose these herbs for their anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties. They also address the core issues, whether its weak bones or toxins accumulating in the joints.
This Pack is combo pack of of our Top Selling Herbal Supplements for Back Pain & Arthritis Relief. Learn more about each product below.
