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Obesity is on the rise. As per the World Health Organisation (WHO), the prevalence of obesity doubled between 1990 and 2022. The WHO accepts the fact that obesity increases the risk of heart diseases, Type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancers. Numerous studies have studied the obesity and cancer risks, and each shows a strong correlation between the two. No doubt, the rise in obesity has sparked growing concerns among healthcare professionals. Even though the obesity cancer link has started to catch up now, it is concerning and needs to be understood in-depth so that people can be serious about their fitness levels.

The Science Behind Obesity and Cancer Risk

Before establishing the obesity cancer link, it is crucial to understand the causes of obesity and overweight. Both conditions are caused when there is an imbalance between the diet and physical activity, or in other words, energy intake and expenditure.

How obesity causes cancer?

Obesity is caused due multiple factors that depend on the genetics, psycho-social factors, and obesogenic environments that increase risks of obesity. Since obesity is related to the deposition of exces fat tissues in the body, there could be scenarios that leads to production of certain types of hormones and inflammation that lead to cancerous growth.

While research is ongoing to understand the exact link and mechanism of body weight and cancer, studies indicate the following key reasons -

• Hormonal changes: The relation between body weight and cancer is significantly profound in females because fat cells produce estrogen, the female sex hormone that has been linked to ovarian, breast, and endometrial cancers. Increased estrogen from fat tissue can drive the growth of hormone-sensitive tumors.
• Insulin resistance: Obesity is linked to higher insulin and insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) levels in the body. Both of these are directly linked to tumour development. In other words, higher levels of insulin and IGF-1 typically creates an environment where cancer cells thrive.
• Chronic inflammation: Inflammation is commonly seen in people with obesity. Adipose tissue in obese individuals often releases inflammatory cytokines, promoting tumor development. Low-level chronic inflammation play a critical role in damaging DNA and impact cell growth and division.
• Immune function impairment: Obesity can cause some disturbances to the normal immune system of the body. This can make it harder for the body to detect and destroy cancerous cells.

Which Cancers are Most Closely Linked to Obesity?

Both, the American Cancer Society and the World Health Organisation agree that obesity is closely linked to increased risks of at least 13 types of cancers. These are cancers of -

• Breast (post-menopausal)
• Colorectal
• Endometrial
• Esophageal
• Pancreatic
• Kidney
• Gallbladder
• Liver
• Ovarian
• Thyroid
• Multiple myeloma
• Gastric cardia (upper stomach)
• Meningioma (a type of brain tumour)

BMI Cancer Risk (Body Mass Index)

The connection is particularly telling. Higher the BMI, greater are the risks of cancer, and vice versa. It has been seen that even modest weight gain during adulthood can increase the risks. BMI is an indicator of fat based on height and weight. Excess body weight or fat can cause hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, and chronic inflammation. These conditions weaken the body’s immune system, contributing to the development of cancer and progression further.

Preventing Cancer

There are no second thoughts about obesity and cancer risk. But is there a way out. The good news is that by maintaining a healthy BMI or weight can help reduce cancer risk. By making lifestyle changes and follow it consistently, the risks of cancer can be prevented. There are certain simple ways to fight obesity and hence, cancer. These include eating a balanced diet, and being physically active, consistently.

Here are a few tips to maintain a healthy Body Mass Index -

• Cut down on processed foods and sugary beverages.
• Stay away from oily food, especially snacks and cravings.
• Keep a close watch on your BMI. A healthy BMI is in the range 18.5 and 24.9.
• Walk and exercise regularly. It should be for a minimum of 150 minutes per week.
• Focus on the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables. Also focus on whole grains.
• Reduce the consumption of smoking and alcohol.

Conclusion

There is no denying the relationship between obesity and cancer risk. Obesity is on the rise, and that is concerning. It is crucial to have a proper understanding of the obesity cancer link for individual well-being and public health. Since obesity, and therefore, cancer risks can be prevented by focusing on understanding BMI cancer risk.