Does obesity lead to cancer?

Dr.Parveen Jain, 4 mins read

Obesity is not only a cosmetic concern but medical, too. It can give rise to new health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. But that’s not all! 

Some studies show a link between excess weight and cancer. You may be amazed to learn that being overweight increases the risk of getting many types of cancers, including all major gastrointestinal cancers & breast cancer in females.

That’s why talking to your doctor about obesity is important. However, some feel ashamed of their weight and aren't able to openly talk about it with their doctors. But it’s very important to consult a doctor to manage your weight. They will help you in shedding weight. 

What’s the link between obesity and cancer?

Several studies have been done to find a connection between obesity and cancer. Following are some reasons that show obesity can increase the risk of cancer. 

First, being overweight increases the level of insulin hormone and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). Excess of this hormone may promote the development of a few cancers, like colon, prostate, endometrial and kidney cancer. 

Second, fat tissue produces estrogen hormones in excess. Too much of this hormone in the body raises the risk of ovarian, endometrial, breast and some other cancers.

Third, obese individuals often have chronic inflammatory conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and gallstones. These diseases can lead to oxidative stress, which causes damage to DNA. This raises the chances of getting biliary tract and other cancers. 

Fourth, fat cells also affect the way the body controls cancer cell growth.

How to know you are overweight?

You can check your BMI (body mass index). To calculate your BMI, all you need to do is just divide your weight in Kg by the square of height in metres. 

If the result comes between 18.5 and 24.9, then you are in a healthy range. If it is between 25 and 29.5, then you are in the overweight range. And if the result comes 30 or more, it means you are obese. 

Tips to reduce your cancer risk if you are obese

A good, active lifestyle and dietary habits are the best ways to improve your well-being. Also, consider reducing your weight if you fall in the overweight and obese category. Even a small amount of weight loss can do a lot more for you in lowering cancer risk.

Here are some healthier choices you should adopt:

• Change your food choices: Talk to a dietitian and ask her to prepare a diet plan for you. It’s important to stick with the plan and avoid food items that contribute to weight gain.
• Make an exercise routine: Having an active lifestyle and regularly exercising can support you in managing your weight and overall well-being.
• Medicines: This is recommended when diet modification and regular exercise don’t show good results and obesity is causing other health conditions. Only take these medications when prescribed by your doctor.
• Get support: Losing weight seems overwhelming. In such situations, getting support in making lifestyle changes is a good option. You can join a weight loss program which usually includes sessions with a weight loss specialist.
• Weight loss surgery: When obesity is causing severe health problems, like diabetes or heart disease, weight loss surgery is a great option. Also known as bariatric surgery, this involves making changes in the digestive system to help you lose weight.

Also, Read: Health Effects of Overweight and Obesity