Obesity is a global epidemic that affects millions of people worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, more than 1.9 billion adults were overweight in 2016, and more than 650 million were obese.

Obesity increases the risk of several serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and some types of cancer. One of the cancers that is strongly associated with obesity is aggressive breast cancer.

Connections between obesity and aggressive breast cancer

Several studies have shown that there is a strong link between obesity and the development of aggressive breast cancer.

Aggressive breast cancer is a type of breast cancer that grows and spreads quickly and is often more difficult to treat than other forms of breast cancer. There are several factors that contribute to the link between obesity and aggressive breast cancer, including:.

Higher levels of estrogen: Fat cells in the body produce estrogen, which can fuel the growth of breast cancer cells. Women who are obese have higher levels of estrogen in their bodies, which increases their risk of developing breast cancer.
Inflammation: Obesity can lead to chronic inflammation in the body, which can increase the risk of cancer. Inflammation can cause damage to DNA and other cells, leading to the development of cancerous tumors.
Insulin resistance: Obesity can also cause insulin resistance, which means that the body is less able to use insulin effectively to regulate blood sugar levels. This can lead to higher levels of insulin in the body, which can promote the growth of cancer cells.

Treatment options for aggressive breast cancer

If you have been diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer, your doctor will work with you to determine the best treatment options based on the stage and type of cancer you have. Some of the most common treatments for aggressive breast cancer include:.

Surgery: Surgery is often the first treatment for aggressive breast cancer. Depending on the size and location of the tumor, your doctor may recommend a lumpectomy or a mastectomy.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is often used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells in the body.
Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It may be used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells or as a primary treatment for aggressive breast cancer.
Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy is often used for women with hormone-sensitive breast cancer. It works by blocking the production or action of estrogen or progesterone, which can fuel the growth of cancer cells.
Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment that targets specific proteins or genes in cancer cells that allow them to grow and divide. It is often used in combination with other treatments for aggressive breast cancer.

Lifestyle changes for preventing and treating aggressive breast cancer

Along with medical treatments for aggressive breast cancer, there are also several lifestyle changes that can help prevent and treat the disease. These lifestyle changes include:.

Exercise: Regular exercise can help reduce the risk of developing aggressive breast cancer and can also improve outcomes for women who have been diagnosed with the disease. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week.
Diet: A healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources can help reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and red meat.
Weight management: If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can help reduce your risk of developing aggressive breast cancer. Talk to your doctor about developing a weight loss plan that is right for you.
Limit alcohol consumption: Drinking more than one alcoholic drink per day can increase your risk of developing breast cancer. Limit your alcohol consumption to one drink per day or less.
Stop smoking: Smoking has been linked to increased breast cancer risk, so if you smoke, quitting can help reduce your risk of developing the disease.

Conclusion

Obesity is a major risk factor for several serious health conditions, including aggressive breast cancer.

If you are concerned about your risk of developing breast cancer, talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk, such as maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular exercise, and adopting a healthy diet. If you have already been diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer, work with your doctor to determine the best treatment plan for your needs.