Obesity and GEP-NEN: what's new?

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Endocrinology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP-NENs) are a diverse group of tumors with incompletely understood origins.
• Excessive visceral adiposity is increasingly implicated in NEN oncogenesis and complicates patient management.
• The relationship between obesity and GEP-NENs involves complex mechanisms like chronic inflammation and metabolic dysregulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the intricate relationship between obesity and GEP-NENs.
• To investigate the potential impact of visceral adiposity on NEN patient outcomes and survival.
• To review current and future therapeutic strategies for GEP-NENs in the context of obesity.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on the interplay between obesity and GEP-NENs.
• Analysis of molecular evidence and clinical data regarding obesity's role in NENs.
• Examination of current therapeutic guidelines for managing obesity in GEP-NEN patients.

Main Results:

• Obesity's role in GEP-NEN oncogenesis is supported by molecular evidence, though some studies suggest a potential "obesity paradox."
• Data on the prognostic impact of visceral adiposity on patient outcomes remains limited and inconclusive.
• Current management strategies for obesity in GEP-NENs include lifestyle interventions, pharmacotherapy, and surgery.

Conclusions:

• The relationship between obesity and GEP-NENs is complex, influencing both oncogenesis and therapeutic approaches.
• Further research is crucial to elucidate the prognostic significance of visceral adiposity in GEP-NENs.
• Personalized therapeutic strategies are needed for GEP-NEN patients affected by obesity.