Obesity Linked to 32 Types of Cancer, Experts Warn

Obesity and Cancer Connection

A major study by Lund University in Sweden has found that obesity could be a factor in four out of 10 cancers, linking excess weight to 32 types of tumors – 19 more than previously thought. The research, tracking 4.1 million people for up to 45 years, analyzed 332,501 cases of cancer, with up to 40% of the cases attributed to the patient's weight.

Preventative Measures

Study author Dr. Ming Sun emphasized the importance of maintaining a normal weight to potentially prevent a substantial proportion of cancers. The study revealed that obesity-related cancers accounted for 25% of all cases, increasing to 40% when potential obesity-related cancers were included.

Risk Factors and Findings

Being overweight can raise cancer risk by altering hormone levels and triggering long-term inflammation in vital organs. The study found that obesity increased the danger of cancer by up to a quarter, with a BMI of 30, the threshold of obesity, increasing the risk for various cancers known to be linked to weight.

Expert Insights

Experts warn of a significant increase in cancer cases due to obesity. Dr. Jennifer Baker from the European Association for the Study of Obesity called the study "groundbreaking," emphasizing the need for preventive measures to lower cancer risk, including maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, sun protection, balanced diet, and limiting alcohol consumption.