Recent studies by the National Institute of Health (NIH) and the American Cancer Society have confirmed a connection between obesity and risk of cancer. This is in addition to cardiovascular and pulmonary problems resulting from obesity.

Obesity and Risk of Cancer

According to the NIH, approximately 20 percent of people diagnosed with certain types of cancer are obese. The NIH defines an obese person as one who has an abnormally high rate of body fat. A high rate of fat is more than 30 percent in a body mass index (BMI).

A person’s healthy BMI is based on:

• Height
• Bone structure
• Age
• Gender

Ethnicity and other factors are taken into consideration. People of all colors, sizes, and shapes can become obese with poor eating habits. Everyone can reduce their risk of cancer due to obesity through a customized diet solution.

Common Cancers

The most common cancers associated with obesity include:

• Breast cancer in post-menopause women
• Endometrial (uterus lining)
• Colon and rectum
• Esophagus
• Pancreas
• Thyroid
• Gallbladder

There is also a correlation between obesity and prostrate cancer in men. Fatty tissue produces hormones known as adipokins and lepkins. These hormones stimulate the growth of tumor cells.

Cancer in Women

Changes in estrogen levels may be responsible for cancer in the breast and reproductive system of post menopausal women. Researchers have found evidence that women who gain excessive weight prior to menopause are at higher risk for breast cancer.

Researchers continue to explore the correlation between obesity and risk of cancer of the uterus. It is two to four times higher in obese women. This may be due to limited physical activity or possibly diabetes in some cases.

Digestive System Cancers

Obesity and risk of cancer of the colon and rectum are high in overweight men as well as women. People who carry their excess weight in the abdominal area are the most susceptible to colon cancer. This type of cancer may be aggravated by diabetes.

Cancer of the esophagus may be caused by acid reflux due to poor digestion. Esophageal adenocarcinoma is twice as likely in obese people. Gallbladder cancer risk increases with excess weight.

The various parts of the digestive system are connected and cancer cells can spread quickly from the colon or esophagus to the liver and pancreas. Once the abnormal tumor cells hit the bloodstream, they can lodge anywhere and multiply.

Prevention is Always Possible

Losing weight will help to prevent cancers associated with being obesity. In fact, obesity and cancer risk diminishes considerably with every kilogram or 2.2 pounds of weight loss.

The prescription for a long and healthy life:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Eat nutritious food
• Enjoy physical activity
• Limit alcohol and avoid smoking

Reduce Your Risk of Cancer

Experienced dietitians at NYC Weightloss Solutions will start you on the road to healthy eating with special programs for obesity. You will learn how to eat properly and exercise.

Schedule your free consultation with one of NYC’s best nutritionists at NYC Weightloss Solutions today by clicking the icon below to sign up – or – call directly at (212) 759-8118.

 

Click Here to Schedule Your Free Consultation