[Oncologic risk of obesity]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Epidemiology
• Endocrinology

Context:

• Growing global obesity rates present a significant public health challenge.
• Established links between excess body weight and increased cancer incidence and mortality.
• Need for updated scientific evidence on the obesity-cancer relationship.

Purpose:

• To review and synthesize current scientific evidence on the association between obesity and cancer risk.
• To explore proposed physiopathological mechanisms linking obesity to oncogenesis.
• To discuss the impact of obesity on cancer prognosis and survival.

Summary:

• Large-scale epidemiological studies consistently demonstrate that obesity elevates the risk of developing specific cancer types.
• Potential mechanisms include mechanical factors, dietary influences, genetic predispositions, immune system alterations, hormonal imbalances, and adipocyte-derived factors.
• Obesity is also implicated in poorer outcomes and survival rates for individuals diagnosed with certain cancers.

Impact:

• Highlights the critical role of obesity prevention in comprehensive cancer control strategies.
• Underscores the need for further research into the complex interplay between adipose tissue and cancer development.
• Provides a foundation for public health initiatives aimed at mitigating obesity-related cancer burdens.