A new study has linked four types of cancers with obesity, highlighting the need for individuals to maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly and maintain a balanced diet.

The study, published in the Lancet Oncology, found that cancers of the colon, ovaries, breast, and womb are more likely to occur in obese individuals than in those who maintain a healthy weight.

The Study

The researchers gathered data from 204 previously conducted studies in which 4 million adults from across the globe were surveyed. The data showed that body mass index (BMI) is directly correlated with the risk of developing the four cancers.

The studies conducted determined that individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher had a significantly higher risk of developing colon and womb cancer. Breast cancer risk increased by 37% and that of ovarian cancer by 10% for every five-unit increase in BMI.

Colorectal Cancer and Obesity

In the case of colorectal cancer, the study found that obese individuals had an increased risk of developing pre-cancerous polyps, which are identified as growths on the inner lining of the colon or rectum.

These polyps can eventually develop into cancer.

The study found that every five-unit increase in BMI was linked to a 9% higher risk of colon cancer.

According to Fritz Francois, MD, Chief Medical Officer for NYU Langone Health, “If an individual is obese, they tend to have more visceral fat, which is the unhealthy fat around the belly area. It is considered a primary contributor to insulin resistance, which is a common cause of colon cancer.”.

Ovarian Cancer

Obesity has long been known to be a risk factor for ovarian cancer. The study found that every five-unit increase in BMI was associated with a 10% higher risk of developing the cancer.

With ovarian cancer being a silent killer, the study highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy weight, combined with regular medical screenings.

Breast Cancer and Obesity

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women. The study found that every five-unit increase in BMI increased the risk of developing breast cancer by 37%.

This is concerning, as it highlights the need for women to maintain a healthy weight and engage in regular exercise and screenings.

Uterine Cancer

Uterine cancer is the most common gynecological cancer in the United States. The study found that every five-unit increase in BMI was connected with a 60% higher risk of uterine cancer.

It is crucial for women to maintain a healthy weight, as overweight women tend to have higher levels of estrogen, which is a known risk factor for uterine cancer.

Conclusion

The study provides a clear link between obesity and the four cancers; colon, ovarian, breast, and womb.

It reinforces the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and regular medical checkups, to avoid developing cancer.

While this study provides alarming evidence on the link between obesity and cancer, it also provides hope that by maintaining a healthy weight, individuals can lower their risk of developing cancer.

The findings of this study support previous studies that have linked obesity to cancer, emphasizing the need for people to take control of their health through lifestyle adjustments and maintaining a healthy weight.