New Delhi: For instance, breast cancer has been proven to be diagnosed more often in increasingly younger ages among women. It has also been determined that among the more significant risk factors for breast cancer is obesity, which is often defined as having a body mass index greater than 30 kg/m². Some types of breast cancer are also hormone-sensitive, meaning they could be determined by the level of hormones in the body.
In an interaction with News9Live, Dr. Reshma Puranik, Consultant Medical Oncologist, DPU Super Specialty Hospital, Pimpri, Pune, spoke about the risk of breast cancer in Indian women, especially the obese group of people.
In obese women, increased deposition of fat tissue is evident, especially in the abdominal region of the body. Such excess fat tissue tends to result in increased production of the estrogen hormone, which can stimulate the multiplication of the breast cancer cells. The levels of estrogen that are relatively higher are conducive to causing breast cancer over some time.
Another significant relation that obesity has with the treatment outcome of breast cancer is its association with recurrence. Even though she is successfully treated, a woman who remains obese is at increased risk for the chance of cancer returning. This is because estrogen is still continually being produced by the fat cells, which especially affects these various forms of hormone-positive breast cancers. Thus, obesity is associated with increased cases of new incidence but also potential recurrence for those who have been managed.
Obesity also leads to the body having more levels of insulin that, in turn, increases the chances for various types of cancer and even breast cancer. According to some studies, the risk of developing breast cancer increases by almost 12% with a 5-point rise in BMI. The above statistics demand attention to the gravity of the issue and hence highlight the urgency of obesity measures being undertaken as preventive and management strategies against the development of breast cancer.
Combating the dangers requires a healthy lifestyle. There should be a balanced diet and exercise in order to achieve optimal weight. At least 30 minutes of physical activity a day may help control body weight and thereby reduce the risk of overall cancer. Exercise has several other benefits for general health that may include reducing cancer incidence besides controlling weight.
Although the risk does not directly affect the efficiency of breast cancer treatments, the long-term effects of obesity should be considered. A well-treated breast cancer patient should intend to maintain her weight in order to minimize recurrences.
Conclusion
The two studies clearly show a relationship between obesity and breast cancer. Obesity increases the risk of developing breast cancer and influences the chances of recurrence of already treated patients. Therefore, there is a greater need to have a healthy weight that is maintained through proper nutrition and exercise. This may cause prevention of overall instances of breast cancer and enhance survival after diagnosis. Thus, giving importance to a healthy lifestyle will allow women to take great steps towards lessening their risk and well-being.
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