In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, staying healthy often takes a backseat, especially when it comes to managing our weight. We might not always realise how carrying extra pounds can impact our long-term health, but the connection between obesity and cancer risk is something we should all be aware of. Obesity doesn’t just affect how we look; it can also significantly raise the chances of developing certain cancers. We spoke to our expert Dr Pritam Kataria, Consultant, Medical Oncology, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, Mumbai, who explained the link between obesity and cancer, its causes, and treatment measures.
“Obesity is characterised by the presence of excess body fat. Clinicians use the terms 'obese' and 'obesity' to describe individuals who face a significantly higher risk of health problems due to an excess of body fat,” said Dr Kataria.
While the World Health Organization (WHO) recognised obesity as a disease in the late 1940s, it gained notable importance only later in the century when its link to serious health issues was established.
"It results from a complex interplay between genetic, environmental, socioeconomic, and behavioural factors. Obesity, or excess body fat, is a significant global health issue linked not only to diabetes and cardiovascular diseases but also to an increased risk of developing certain cancers and related mortality," said Dr Kataria.
Overweight and obesity, typically measured using Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist circumference, are more common now than ever before. According to WHO, a body mass index (BMI) above 25 is classified as overweight, while a BMI over 30 is considered obese. In 2019, approximately 5 million deaths from Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) were attributed to having a higher-than-optimal BMI.
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Obesity and Cancer Risk
“Obesity is a well-established risk factor for several types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, oesophageal, kidney, gallbladder, uterine, pancreatic, and liver cancer. It not only increases the risk of developing these cancers but also impacts treatment outcomes and survival rates. Approximately 4–8% of all cancers are attributed to obesity, though the underlying mechanisms are complex and not fully understood,” said Dr Kataria.
Mechanism of Obesity and Development of Cancer
- Adipose tissue, or fat tissue, generates excess estrogen, which has been linked to a higher risk of cancers, such as breast, endometrial, ovarian, and others.
- People with obesity often have increased blood insulin levels and Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1)
- Cell growth can be stimulated or inhibited by hormones called adipokines produced by fat cells
Treatment and Prevention of Obesity
Preventing obesity involves making healthy lifestyle choices every day. Here are some ways to treat and prevent obesity, as listed by the expert:
1. Diet to Prevent Obesity
Having a diet rich in fruits and vegetables reduces the risk of obesity. Fruits and vegetables contain a variety of beneficial nutrients and are associated with a lower risk of diabetes and insulin resistance.
2. Avoid Processed Foods
Highly processed foods, such as white bread and many packaged snacks, are often loaded with empty calories that can quickly accumulate. Also, do not forget to reduce eating foods high in saturated fat as it contributes to obesity.
3. Limit Sugar and Artificial Sweeteners
Keeping your intake of added sugars low is crucial. Current dietary guidelines recommend that most adult women consume no more than 24 grams of sugar per day, while most adult men should limit their intake to 36 grams.
Also Read: Sucralose For Weight Loss: Expert Explains If This Artificial Sweetener Is Good For Weight Loss?
4. Pay Attention to Beverages
The sugar and calories in soft drinks, energy drinks, sports drinks, and juices can accumulate quickly, leading to weight gain. However, beverages labelled 'sugar-free' and 'low-calorie' aren't necessarily healthier options.
5. Exercising to Prevent Obesity
"Most national and international guidelines suggest that adults aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week, which breaks down to about 30 minutes a day, five days a week," said Dr Kataria.
6. Reducing Stress to Prevent Obesity
Chronic stress elevates cortisol levels, a stress hormone that contributes to weight gain. It can also lead to poor dietary choices, as cortisol and other stress hormones can trigger carb cravings and undermine decision-making and willpower.
Look into the many healthy ways to beat stress, and find what works best for you. This might include:
- Going for a daily walk
- Engaging in regular yoga or tai chi
- Meditating
- Listening to music you love
- Getting together with friends
8. Improving Sleep to Prevent Obesity
The importance of sleep for overall well-being cannot be overstated, and it plays a crucial role in preventing obesity as well. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that adults aged 18 and older should aim for seven or more hours of sleep each night, with even more recommended for younger individuals.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]