Obesity is linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, with research identifying at least 13 specific cancers associated with excess body weight. The connection between obesity and cancer risk is primarily attributed to various biological mechanisms influenced by excess fat. Here are the key points regarding this link:
Types of Cancer Associated with Obesity
The following cancers have been linked to obesity:
- Breast Cancer (post-menopausal)
- Colorectal Cancer
- Endometrial (Uterine) Cancer
- Esophageal Cancer
- Gallbladder Cancer
- Kidney Cancer
- Liver Cancer
- Pancreatic Cancer
- Prostate Cancer
- Stomach Cancer
- Thyroid Cancer
- Multiple Myeloma
- Meningioma (a type of brain tumor).
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Mechanisms Linking Obesity to Cancer
- Chronic Inflammation: Excess fat, particularly visceral fat surrounding organs, leads to chronic inflammation in the body. This inflammation can promote cell mutation and tumor growth, increasing cancer risk.
- Hormonal Changes: Obesity affects hormone levels, including insulin and sex hormones like estrogen. Increased body fat leads to higher estrogen levels in women, which has been linked to breast and uterine cancers. In men, obesity can lower testosterone levels, potentially increasing prostate cancer risk.
- Insulin Resistance: Obese individuals often experience elevated insulin levels due to increased abdominal fat. This condition, known as hyperinsulinaemia, is associated with a higher risk of cancers such as colon and kidney cancer.
- Growth Factors: Higher levels of growth hormones and other signaling molecules produced by fat cells can stimulate cell division, raising the likelihood of cancerous developments.
- Immune System Dysregulation: Obesity can alter immune responses, making the body less effective at detecting and destroying cancer cells.
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Conclusion
The association between obesity and cancer underscores the importance of maintaining a healthy weight through lifestyle changes such as improved diet and regular physical activity. Addressing obesity could potentially reduce the incidence of these cancers significantly in the population.