Obesity and Cancer Risk

Obesity and Cancer Risk

There is substantial evidence linking obesity to an increased risk of several types of cancer. Numerous studies have shown that individuals who are overweight or obese have a higher likelihood of developing various forms of cancer.

The biggest take-away and the most important finding in most recent research is the reduction in risk of specific cancers. Here are some hard facts about adhering to a healthy lifestyle and cancer risk reduction:

• 11 percent lower risk of breast cancer
• 12 percent lower risk of colorectal cancer
• 8 percent lower risk of lung cancer

The connection between obesity and cancer is complex and not fully understood, but several mechanisms are thought to contribute to this relationship:

Chronic inflammation:

Obesity is associated with chronic inflammation in the body. Inflammation can promote the development of cancer by damaging DNA, increasing cell turnover, and creating a microenvironment that supports the growth of cancer cells.

Hormone imbalance:

Adipose tissue (fat) can produce hormones and other signaling molecules. Excess body fat can disrupt the balance of hormones in the body, particularly insulin and sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone. Altered hormone levels can increase the risk of hormone-related cancers such as breast and prostate cancer.

Insulin resistance:

Obesity often leads to insulin resistance, where cells in the body do not respond effectively to insulin. High insulin levels can promote cell growth and may contribute to the development of certain cancers.

Changes in adipokines:

Adipose tissue secretes various bioactive substances called adipokines. Changes in the levels of these adipokines can have a pro-inflammatory and pro-cancer effect.

Free fatty acids:

Obesity can lead to an increased level of free fatty acids in the bloodstream, which may contribute to cancer progression.

The types of cancer most strongly associated with obesity include:

Breast cancer:

Postmenopausal women who are overweight or obese have a higher risk of breast cancer.

Colorectal cancer:

Obesity is associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer.

Endometrial cancer:

Obesity is a well-established risk factor for endometrial cancer.

Kidney cancer:

There is evidence that obesity is a risk factor for kidney cancer.

Pancreatic cancer:

Obesity may increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.

Liver cancer:

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is closely linked to obesity, can increase the risk of liver cancer.

It's important to note that while obesity is a risk factor for these cancers, it doesn't guarantee that an individual will develop cancer. Many other factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors, also play a role in cancer development.

Preventing and managing obesity through a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of cancer and improve overall health. Additionally, cancer screening and early detection are important for individuals at higher risk due to obesity or other factors. If you have concerns about your cancer risk, I would be happy to talk to you to provide personalized guidance and recommendations.

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References:

• https://www.aicr.org/resources/blog/cancer-prevention-recommendations-in-action-more-evidence-that-they-work/
• https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanonc/article/PIIS1470-2045(02)00849-5/fulltext
• https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0026049518302324
• https://link.springer.com/article/10.1023/A:1008995217664
• https://academic.oup.com/aje/article/159/3/259/79796
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