Colon cancer is one of the top cancers that affect people around the world. It is a deadly disease that is hard to treat, especially when it is detected at an advanced stage.

Several factors can contribute to colon cancer, and one of these factors is obesity.

What is obesity?

Obesity is defined as having excess body fat. It is usually determined by calculating body mass index (BMI), which is a measure of weight in relation to height. A person with a BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese.

Obesity is a severe health issue that is linked to numerous illnesses, including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), obesity has become a global epidemic affecting over 650 million adults worldwide.

Colon cancer – the basics

Colon cancer occurs when there is an abnormal growth of cells in the colon. It often starts as small, noncancerous clumps of cells or small polyps, but over time, these cells can become cancerous.

Colon cancer grows slowly, and symptoms don’t usually appear until it has progressed to an advanced stage. Some of the common symptoms of colon cancer are abdominal pain, bleeding during bowel movements, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. Colon cancer is treatable, and early detection can increase the chances of recovery.

Obesity increases the risk of colon cancer

Studies have shown that obesity is a risk factor for colon cancer. Several mechanisms link obesity to colon cancer risk. One of these mechanisms is the production of hormones that can promote the development of colon cancer cells.

For example, when a person is obese, their adipose tissue or fat cells produce excess estrogen and insulin. Both hormones are known to promote tumor growth. Additionally, obesity can lead to a chronic state of inflammation in the body, which can also contribute to colon cancer development.

The link between obesity and colon cancer progression

Obesity can also contribute to the progression of colon cancer. Obese individuals with colon cancer are more likely to have an advanced stage of the disease at diagnosis.

Obesity can also affect the response to treatment, making the cancer more resistant to chemotherapy. Obese individuals are also at higher risk of recurrent cancer and have lower survival rates compared to those who are not obese.

Preventing colon cancer in obese individuals

Weight loss is crucial in preventing the development and progression of colon cancer in obese individuals. A healthy diet and regular exercise are essential in managing weight and reducing cancer risk.

According to the American Cancer Society, adults must engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week to maintain good health. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein is recommended. Limiting the intake of processed and red meats and sugary drinks is also crucial in preventing colon cancer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, obesity is a severe health issue that increases the risk of colon cancer. Obese individuals with colon cancer have a more advanced stage of the disease at diagnosis, a poorer response to treatment, and lower survival rates.

It is essential to engage in a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a healthy diet, to maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of colon cancer.