Obesity has become a leading health concern globally, with a considerable increase in the number of cases in recent years.

Obesity increases the risk of various health conditions, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes. Weight loss surgery emerges as a common solution for treating obesity and reducing the risk of these health conditions. In recent research studies, weight loss surgery is also shown to be beneficial in cancer prevention.

This article explores the link between weight loss surgery and cancer prevention.

What is weight loss surgery?

Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, is a surgical procedure to help people lose weight. The surgery usually involves reducing the size of the stomach, which limits the amount of food people can take in at one time.

As a result, people feel full quicker and consume fewer calories, leading to weight loss. Bariatric surgery is typically recommended for people with a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 40 or higher or those with a BMI of 35 or higher with other obesity-related health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.

How does weight loss surgery reduce the risk of cancer?

Various studies have suggested that weight loss surgery can reduce the risk of cancer, particularly in women. Obesity is linked to an increased risk of several types of cancers, including breast cancer, colon cancer, and endometrial cancer.

Weight loss surgery can reduce the risk of these cancers by lowering the levels of the hormones that promote their growth.

Breast cancer

Research studies suggest that women who undergo weight loss surgery are less likely to develop breast cancer. Obesity is associated with a higher risk of breast cancer after menopause, and the risk decreases when weight loss surgery is done.

In addition, weight loss surgery also reduces the levels of the hormone estrogen, which has been linked to breast cancer growth. This effect is particularly pronounced in postmenopausal women.

Colon cancer

Obesity is a significant risk factor for colon cancer, and weight loss surgery has been found to decrease the risk of this cancer. The surgery leads to weight loss and decreased inflammation in the body, reducing the risk of colon cancer.

In addition, regular screenings are recommended for people who undergo weight loss surgery to monitor the development of polyps.

Endometrial cancer

Endometrial cancer is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the uterus and is closely linked to obesity.

Weight loss surgery has been found to lower the risk of endometrial cancer by reducing the levels of estrogen and other hormones that promote the growth of cancer cells. It also improves insulin sensitivity, which can decrease the risk of developing endometrial cancer.

Other cancers

Weight loss surgery has also been shown to reduce the risk of other types of cancers, including pancreatic cancer, liver cancer, and prostate cancer.

Obesity is linked to these cancers, and weight loss surgery can help to lower the risk by reducing inflammation and insulin resistance in the body.

Conclusion

Weight loss surgery is an effective method for treating obesity and reducing the risk of numerous health concerns, including cancer.

Numerous studies have shown that weight loss surgery can reduce the risk of several types of cancers, including breast cancer, colon cancer, endometrial cancer, pancreatic cancer, liver cancer, and prostate cancer. If you are obese or overweight, weight loss surgery may be an option for you. Consult with a healthcare provider to see if this treatment is right for you.