Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to both adult men and women. Numerous studies have linked high BMI to several health problems, including colon cancer.

However, little research exists on the relationship between BMI in teenage years and colon cancer risk later in life. This article aims to examine the link between BMI in teenage years and colon cancer risk in adulthood.

What is BMI?

BMI reflects the percentage of body fat based on a person’s weight and height. It’s calculated by dividing body weight in kilograms by height in meters squared (kg/m²).

The World Health Organization (WHO) considers a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 as normal, a BMI between 25 and 29.9 as overweight, and a BMI of 30 or higher as obese.

How does BMI affect colon cancer risk?

Several studies have shown that there is a clear connection between high BMI and colon cancer. A meta-analysis published in the Annals of Oncology revealed that every 5-point increase in BMI was linked to an 8% increase in colon cancer risk.

Moreover, the American Society for Clinical Oncology reports that obesity is one of the proven risk factors for colon cancer, being second only to smoking as a leading cause of the disease.

Relationship between BMI in teenage years and colon cancer risk later in life

Studies have shown that individuals who are overweight or obese in their teenage years are more likely to carry excess body fat into adulthood, which in turn increases their risk of developing colon cancer.

A 2016 study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that men who had a high BMI at age 16 had a significantly increased risk of colon cancer later in life than those with a normal BMI at the same age. The study also found men who had a 5-unit increase in BMI between ages 16 and 20 were at a greater risk of colon cancer.

Why is being overweight or obese dangerous in terms of colon cancer?

Obesity can trigger insulin resistance, a condition in which cells don’t respond to insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels. Insulin resistance can promote the growth of colon cancer cells.

Moreover, obesity can cause chronic inflammation, a condition in which inflammation persists in the body, even when there is no infection or injury. Chronic inflammation can damage DNA and promote the growth of cancer cells.

How can colon cancer be prevented?

Several lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of colon cancer, including:.

Maintain a healthy weight
Exercise regularly
Follow a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
Get screened regularly for colon cancer, especially if you have a family history of the disease

Conclusion

Teenage obesity is a major public health issue that can have serious long-term health consequences, including colon cancer. Several studies have linked high BMI in teenage years to an increased risk of colon cancer later in life.

It’s important to adopt a healthy lifestyle from a young age to reduce the risk of colon cancer and other diseases.