Recent research indicates being overweight raises the risk of developing cancer by 17%!  Doctors at Fortis Escorts Amritsar urge people to undergo regular screenings as obesity is linked to insulin resistance and chronic inflammation, both of which can

Recent research indicates being overweight raises the risk of developing cancer by 17%! 

 Doctors at Fortis Escorts Amritsar urge people to undergo regular screenings as obesity is linked to insulin resistance and chronic inflammation, both of which can foster the growth of cancer.  

  Amritsar, March 2024: Globally, obesity remains a major health concern, not just because it increases the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular illnesses, but also because it makes people more vulnerable to cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that the number of people who die each year from obesity-related causes has almost tripled, accounting for 2.8 million deaths. Recent research highlights the urgency for preventative measures, stating that being overweight increases the risk of developing cancer by 17%. This demonstrates a strong correlation between obesity and different types of cancers including breast, colorectal, endometrial, renal, oesophageal, pancreatic, liver, and gallbladder which account for 4-8% of such cases.  

Obesity, defined as an excessive amount of body fat as determined by the body mass index (BMI), is linked to several mechanisms that connect it with cancer. Hormones and growth factors produced by adipose tissue, or fat cells, have the ability to accelerate the development and spread of tumors. Additionally, obesity correlates with insulin resistance and chronic inflammation, both facilitating cancer growth. Moreover, sedentary lifestyles and bad eating habits are common among obese people, which further heightens cancer risk.  

Dr. Arun K Sharma, Consultant of General Surgery, Fortis Escorts, Amritsar, said, “Education efforts are essential in bringing attention to the complex relationship between obesity and cancer, enabling people to make well-informed decisions about their health. Regular health screenings should be prioritized because they can significantly enhance treatment outcomes through early detection obtained from check-ups, highlighting the vital significance of proactive health maintenance and preventive actions. The link between obesity and cancer is startling, but it can be prevented. By means of focused interventions and modifications to their lifestyle, people can considerably lower their vulnerability to certain major diseases. Adopt good eating habits – diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Regular exercise reduces inflammation, improves insulin sensitivity, and helps people regulate their weight—all of which reduce the risk of obesity-related malignancies.”