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How Is Obesity Linked With Higher Risk Of Cancer?

Obesity is a condition involving excessive fat in your body. Read on to learn how it increases the risk of cancer.
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How Is Obesity Linked With Higher Risk Of Cancer?


Obesity is the leading cause of several underlying diseases. Poor eating habits, sedentary lifestyle, and other environmental factors contribute to obesity. Among the other risks associated with obesity, one of the most alarming is its correlation with cancer. 

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), obesity has nearly tripled since 1975, with over 650 million adults classified as obese in 2016. The growing epidemic extends beyond physical appearance and poses a significant threat to public health due to its association with a multitude of chronic diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.

To understand how obesity and cancer are correlated, OnlyMyHealth interacted with Dr Karishma Kirti, Consultant Breast Specialist and Oncoplastic Surgeon, Mumbai.

Link Between Obesity And Cancer

While the relationship between obesity and cancer may seem complex, there are several mechanisms that play a part in this link. Dr Kirti helped us identify a few. 

1. Inflammation

As per Dr Kirti, obesity triggers a state of chronic low-grade inflammation in the body. “This persistent inflammatory environment can damage DNA, promote the growth of abnormal cells, and contribute to the initiation and progression of cancer,” Dr Kirti said. 

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2. Hormonal Imbalance

“Adipose tissue, or fat cells, are not merely inert energy reservoirs but active endocrine organs. They secrete hormones such as oestrogen and insulin, which play pivotal roles in cell growth and metabolism,” Dr Kirti said.  Excessive fat tissue disrupts the delicate balance of these hormones, fueling the growth of hormone-sensitive cancers such as breast and endometrial cancer.

Also read: How Close Is India To Curing Cancer? Experts Share Insights

3. Insulin Resistance

Obesity is infamous for leading to insulin resistance. It is a condition where cells become less responsive to insulin. “Consequently, the body produces higher levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which have been implicated in the development  and progression of various cancers.”

4. Fat Distribution

According to Dr Kirti, distribution of body fat is crucial. Excess visceral fat, which accumulates around vital organs in the abdomen, is particularly harmful. “It releases inflammatory substances and hormones that promote tumour growth and metastasis,” Dr Kirti said. 

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5. Immune Dysfunction

Obesity compromises the immune system's ability to identify and eliminate cancerous cells. “This impaired immune surveillance allows cancer cells to escape detection and proliferate unchecked,” Dr Kirti said. 

6. Increased Cell Division

Fat cells release proteins that stimulate cell division, creating an environment conducive to the growth of cancerous cells.

7. Lifestyle Factors

Beyond biological mechanisms, obesity is often accompanied by unhealthy lifestyle habits such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, and alcohol and tobacco use. These behaviours independently contribute to cancer risk and exacerbate the detrimental effects of excess body weight.

Also read: Inflammatory Breast Cancer Rash: What Does It Look Like?

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Ways To Reduce Your Risk Of Cancer?

Cancer is one of the major diseases which can be prevented by taking some steps. Dr Kirti helped us understand these preventive measures. 

1. Leading a Healthy Lifestyle

Adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, coupled with regular physical activity, is imperative for maintaining a healthy weight and reducing cancer risk.

2. Prioritise Prevention

Consult healthcare professionals for personalised recommendations based on individual risk factors and medical history. Regular health check-up and screening is of prime importance in the fight against cancer.

3. Raise Awareness

By fostering awareness and promoting healthy behaviours within communities, we can collectively strive towards a healthier future.

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