A large international study has strengthened the evidence that excess body weight can increase the risk of several types of cancer. Researchers reviewed decades of data from around the world and found that a higher body mass index (BMI) is associated with an increased risk of 19 different types of cancer. And the results were published in Normal metabolism It is among the most comprehensive analyzes of the relationship between obesity and cancer to date.
BMI is a measure that estimates whether a person’s weight is appropriate for his or her height. Although it does not directly measure body fat, it is widely used as a simple screening tool. The new review analyzed information from 226 studies that included about 1.5 million cancer cases. The researchers found that as body mass index increases, the risk of many types of cancer also increases.
What did the study find?
The researchers found a positive relationship between high body mass index and 19 types of cancer. Some of the strongest links have been observed between endometrial cancer, which affects the lining of the uterus, and esophageal adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer that develops in the food pipe. According to the analysis, every five-unit increase in BMI was associated with a 58% increased risk of endometrial cancer and a 47% increased risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma.
The review also found links between high BMI and several types of cancer that have received less attention in the past. These included leukemia, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, bladder cancer, and glioma, a type of brain tumor. The researchers say these findings expand current understanding of how excess body weight affects cancer development.
Why does excess weight increase the risk of cancer?
Researchers believe there may be several biological processes that could explain this association. Excess body fat can lead to chronic inflammation, which can lead to cell damage over time. Obesity is also associated with high levels of certain hormones, including insulin and estrogen, which may lead to abnormal cell growth. In addition, excess fatty tissue can affect the body’s metabolism and create an environment that may lead to the development of cancer.
Obesity may also affect the size and function of some organs, increasing the number of cells that can become cancerous. Although the exact mechanisms are still being studied, experts agree that the relationship between obesity and cancer is complex and involves multiple pathways.
Not all cancer risks were higher
Interestingly, the study found that a higher BMI was associated with a lower risk of some specific cancers, including premenopausal breast cancer. However, researchers say these findings do not mean that excess weight is generally protective. The overall results continue to show that obesity is a major health concern and is associated with an increased risk of many serious diseases, including many types of cancer.
The researchers also compared BMI with waist circumference, another measure often used to evaluate body fat. They found that both measures had similar results when predicting cancer risk, although there were some differences for certain types of cancer.
What does this mean for public health?
Obesity rates have been rising around the world, making these findings particularly important. Health organizations have long recognized that obesity is a risk factor for many types of cancer, but this new analysis suggests that the impact may be higher than previously known. Experts say that maintaining a healthy weight through balanced eating, regular physical activity and other lifestyle measures can help reduce the risk of future cancer.
The researchers also found that some regions, including parts of South Asia and Africa, remain underrepresented in long-term cancer studies. More research involving diverse populations will be needed to better understand how obesity affects cancer risk among different groups.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides general information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
