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Recent studies shared at the yearly meeting of the Endocrine Society in San Francisco show a shocking fact: cancer deaths related to obesity in the United States have increased more than threefold, rising from 3.73 per million in 1999 to 13.52 per million in 2020. Being overweight is being recognized more and more as a significant risk factor for developing and worsening various types of cancer. Extra body fat does not only add to body weight; it changes the body’s internal environment, causing hormonal and metabolic issues that increase cancer risk. It also leads to insulin resistance, which causes a rise in insulin-like growth factors (IGF-1 and IGF-2).
These factors stimulate unusual cell growth and division. This cell disruption sets the stage for cancer cells to grow without control. For women, especially those who have gone through menopause, being overweight increases estrogen production because of the extra fat tissue, which significantly raises the risks for breast and endometrial cancers. The hormonal effects of being overweight quietly act as a strong trigger for cancers that depend on hormones. Being overweight creates a long-term state of inflammation, encouraging the release of cytokines, the development of new blood vessels, and a weakened immune system, all of which not only start cancer but also make it more severe. Long-lasting inflammation and weakened immunity hinder the body’s natural ability to fight off cancer cells.
People with obesity are more likely to receive late-stage cancer diagnoses. Cancers in those who are overweight are often more aggressive and difficult to manage due to later detection, reduced physical activity, and a lower tolerance for treatment. This combination increases the risk of death. The growing issue isn't only a problem in Western countries. In India, cancers related to obesity, such as those of the gallbladder, pancreas, and colon, are appearing more often.These trends reflect global patterns, highlighting a serious public health challenge in both poorer and richer countries. It is essential to increase public understanding of the connection between obesity and cancer to motivate healthier lifestyle choices.
Without the right knowledge, people might ignore the importance of controlling their weight to prevent cancer. Early detection can significantly affect outcomes. Regular screenings like mammograms, colonoscopies, and Pap tests, along with new methods like liquid biopsies, give overweight individuals a better opportunity for early diagnosis and better results. Those at high risk must make regular check-ups a priority. Prevention begins with making healthy choices. Eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, and decreasing time spent being inactive are crucial for preventing cancer.
