The relationship between cancer and obesity has been demonstrated by many studies in recent years and it has been determined that obesity is a risk factor for some types of cancer. Studies by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) show that obesity increases the incidence of cancer worldwide. Here are important numerical data on this relationship:
Impact of Obesity on Cancer and Incidence
Among the cancers caused by obesity, cancers of the colon (large intestine), breast (especially after menopause), endometrium (uterus), kidney, pancreas, esophagus and gall bladder stand out. According to IARC data, obesity is identified as a risk factor for a total of 13 cancer types, including these cancers.
- Colon cancer: The risk of colon cancer increases by approximately 30% in individuals with obesity.
- Breast Cancer: The risk of breast cancer increases by 20-40% in women with obesity, especially in the postmenopausal period.
- Uterine Cancer: The risk of endometrial cancer increases 2-4 times in women with obesity.
- Pancreatic Cancer: The risk of pancreatic cancer has been found to be 20-50% higher due to obesity.
Numerical Data and Effects of Obesity on Cancer
Globally, it is estimated that around 3.5 million new cancer cases each year are linked to overweight and obesity. According to data from the American Cancer Society, about 3.6% of cancer cases worldwide were attributed to obesity in 2012.
According to data from the US:
- Obesity-related cancers account for 13% of cancer cases in women and 9% in men.
- About 17% of breast cancer cases and 11% of colon cancer cases are related to obesity.
Situation in Turkey
Obesity rates in Turkey are quite high and this increases the risk of cancer. According to data from the Ministry of Health, the obesity rate in Turkey is 20% for men and 40% for women. These high rates lead to an increase in obesity-related cancer cases in Turkey. In 2019, it is estimated that approximately 4% of all cancer cases in Turkey are linked to obesity.
Mechanisms of the Effect of Obesity on Cancer
The impact of obesity on cancer is explained by several biological mechanisms:
- Inflammation: Excess fat tissue causes chronic inflammation in the body, which leads to DNA damage in cells and increases the risk of cancer.
- Hormone Levels: Obesity increases levels of hormones such as estrogen and insulin. High estrogen levels can increase the risk of breast and endometrial cancer, while insulin resistance can also contribute to various types of cancer.
- Insulin Resistance and Insulin-Like Growth Factor (IGF-1): Increased insulin and IGF-1 levels in obese individuals can accelerate cancer formation by triggering cell growth.
Cancer Prevention and Reducing Obesity
The World Health Organization emphasizes that controlling obesity is an important step to reduce the risk of cancer. Research shows that even a 5-10% weight loss is effective in reducing cancer risk. For example, a 5-10% weight loss in postmenopausal women can lead to a 12% reduction in breast cancer risk.
Conclusion
Obesity is a major risk factor for many types of cancer and controlling obesity rates is critical in reducing the incidence of cancer in the general population. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, engaging in regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy body weight are among the most important steps that can be taken to reduce cancer risk.
