Aging, Chronic Inflammation, and Cancer Risk Explored at ESMO 2026 Congress
Chronic inflammation and changes in the immune system during aging drive tumor development, according to findings presented at the ESMO 2026 Congress. Miriam Merad, an immunology and oncology researcher at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, reported at the conference that understanding how the body’s microenvironment shifts over time opens new paths for early cancer intervention before the disease advances.
The Dual Role of Macrophages in Tumor Progression
Researchers examining the aging immune system focus heavily on macrophages, which are immune cells responsible for defending the body and repairing tissues. Merad explained that these cells can drive harmful inflammatory processes when their activity changes or persists over time. While the body requires inflammation to fight threats and repair tissues, pathological inflammation creates a persistent environment that encourages tumor growth. As people age, specific populations of these inflammatory cells accumulate in tissues, releasing signals that expand mutated cells and accelerate precancerous lesions.
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Investigating Interleukin-1 and Innate Immunity
Scientists are looking closely at specific molecular signals, including interleukin-1 (IL-1), which drives inflammatory responses. McGranahan emphasized the need to look beyond T lymphocytes and study innate immunity more deeply. Inhibiting IL-1 pathways is one experimental strategy currently under investigation to stop tumors from growing, though researchers must balance this against the immune system's essential protective functions against infections.
Translating these laboratory discoveries into clinical practice requires identifying which patients will actually benefit from anti-inflammatory treatments. Because blocking the immune system indiscriminately leaves patients vulnerable to infections and impairs tissue healing, researchers are working to define precise patient profiles. Merad highlighted the necessity of strengthening collaboration between academic institutions and companies to accelerate the development of these targeted therapies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Aging and Cancer Inflammation
Why does aging increase the risk of developing cancer?
Aging alters the immune system and promotes chronic inflammation. According to research presented by Miriam Merad at the ESMO 2026 Congress, these age-related changes cause macrophages and other inflammatory cells to accumulate in tissues, creating a microenvironment that helps mutated cells expand.
Can anti-inflammatory drugs prevent cancer right now?
Not yet. While blocking inflammatory pathways like interleukin-1 (IL-1) is a focus of current research, Merad noted that these approaches still require research to establish in which patients they could be useful, what benefits they would provide, and what their potential risks would be.