Wellness/Prevention: Weight Loss Should Be Part of Cancer Prevention Strategies!

Recent studies underscore the concerning link between obesity and heightened susceptibility to certain cancers, particularly ovarian, endometrial, and postmenopausal breast cancer in women. While the precise mechanisms underpinning this association remain elusive, emerging evidence suggests that obesity-induced alterations in sex hormone levels, insulin resistance, and chronic inflammation may play pivotal roles in fueling tumorigenesis.

Obesity exerts a multifaceted influence on hormonal balance, disrupting the delicate interplay of estrogen, progesterone, and other sex hormones implicated in the regulation of cell growth and proliferation. Furthermore, the presence of excess adipose tissue can precipitate insulin resistance, leading to elevated levels of circulating insulin and insulin-like growth factors that promote aberrant cell proliferation and tumor development.

Chronic inflammation, a hallmark feature of obesity, further exacerbates the oncogenic milieu by fostering a pro-inflammatory microenvironment conducive to tumor initiation and progression. Additionally, adipose tissue itself serves as an active endocrine organ, secreting a myriad of bioactive molecules, known as adipokines, which may exert direct and indirect effects on cancer cell behavior.

Compounding the risk posed by obesity, affected women also face heightened susceptibility to cancer recurrence and mortality, underscoring the urgent need for proactive intervention strategies. Recognizing the pivotal role of lifestyle factors in cancer prevention, experts advocate for the adoption of healthier behaviors among obese women as a cornerstone of cancer risk reduction efforts.

Embracing a multifaceted approach that encompasses dietary modifications, regular physical activity, weight management, and smoking cessation can mitigate the adverse impact of obesity on cancer risk and prognosis. By empowering women to make informed choices and cultivate a healthier lifestyle, healthcare professionals play a pivotal role in stemming the tide of obesity-related cancers and fostering a future marked by improved health outcomes and enhanced well-being.

Best Practice & Research, Clinical Obstetrics and Gynaecology, February 2015