Prostate cancer patients who have lower insulin levels and carry less extra weight are less likely to die from their disease, according to new research.

The study, to be published in The Lancet Oncology, suggests that tackling obesity may be an effective way of treating this type of cancer.

“Obesity effects and the insulin effects are so big that I think if you had to choose between being thin and having a low insulin level or having access to the best chemotherapy, you would be more likely to survive without chemotherapy,” senior author Dr. Michael Pollak said, according to HealthDay News.

The researchers analyzed data on more than 2,500 men whose progress had been followed as part of a 24-year study. They looked at factors such as body mass index and C-peptide concentration (which indicates insulin levels).

Overweight men were found to be 47 percent more likely to die from prostate cancer than those of normal weight, while obesity more than doubled a man’s chance of death.

Meanwhile, patients with high C-peptide levels also had twice the risk of dying, compared with men who had lower concentrations.

Those who want to lower their blood sugar naturally may consider changing their diet, exercising more and taking nutritional supplements.