Carrying around extra weight is a known risk factor for developing some cancers. But exactly which kinds of cancer are associated with obesity is debated. A study published Feb. 28, 2017, in The BMJ aimed to narrow it down. European researchers combed through about 100 large reviews of observational studies that looked for links between being overweight and getting cancer.
Out of 36
kinds of cancer evaluated, the researchers found strong evidence for a link to
obesity for 11—in the colon, rectum, biliary tract (liver and gallbladder),
pancreas, breast, endometrium (uterine lining), ovary, kidney, and the gastric
cardia (the junction of the esophagus and stomach); a certain type of
esophageal cancer (adenocarcinoma); and one type of bone marrow cancer
(multiple myeloma). The researchers said there may be links between obesity and
other cancers, but so far the evidence is relatively weak.
We do know
obesity is a cancer risk factor that you can modify, through exercise and diet.
Make sure you're doing at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity
activity, such as brisk walking. And if you're overweight, talk to your doctor a
dietitian or a qualified nutrtionist about how to change your eating habits.
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