Features of cancer management in obese patients

There is worldwide increased in obesity prevalence and statistical almost half of United-States, including children, could be obese by 2050. Obesity in cancer patients is a major issue in oncology because weight gain and obesity account for approximately 20% of all cancer cases. Indeed, increased obesity is linked with higher risk of various types of cancer and a poorer survival. Although biological mechanisms underlying how obesity causes an increased risk of cancer are suggested, overweight as a putative direct cause of death is still debated. Numerous confounding factors may impact on survival, including comorbidities and imaging limitations. Moreover, difficulties to achieve the standard oncologic care with surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiation may also be concerned. Herein, we examined the specific features and potential adaptation of the cancer management in overweighed patients. Then, we reviewed how implicated molecular pathways may provide new strategies to decrease cancer risk and predict toxicities in an increasingly obese population.